SNAP: What you should know about the new restrictions on food purchases
Several states in the United States are tightening SNAP rules and will limit the purchase of certain products, we tell you which ones
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps millions of low-income Americans afford food, faces a new phase of change. Over the next two years, several states will implement restrictions to prevent beneficiaries from using their support to purchase soda, energy drinks and certain candy.
The measure is part of a strategy that seeks to direct program spending towards options considered healthier.
In recent months, different states have received authorization to modify the rules on the use of food benefits.
States with new SNAP restrictions
Additionally, Kansas, Nevada and Wyoming will implement similar measures in the next two years.
According to forecasts, by 2028 almost half of the country's states will have restrictions on the purchase of sugary drinks or certain sweets through SNAP.
Ohio will begin changes in October
In Ohio, the new provisions will go into effect on October 1 and will remain in effect for two years.
Matt Damschroder, director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS), said the authorization granted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) represents a step to improve health outcomes for those receiving food assistance.
As he explained, the initiative arose after joint work with specialists in nutrition, public health and access to food.
There will also be new rules for businesses
The changes will not only reach the beneficiaries of the program. The USDA announced that establishments authorized to accept SNAP will be required to expand the range of nutritious foods available to consumers.
Starting in the fall, businesses will have to offer at least seven types of products within four categories:
The Secretary of Agriculture of the United States, Brooke Rollins, pointed out that businesses authorized by SNAP receive more than $90 billion dollars a year from public funds, so the agency seeks to guarantee that these resources are linked to the sale of food.
What is SNAP?
SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, provides a monthly benefit through a debit card so low-income individuals and families can purchase food.
The program already includes restrictions on products such as alcohol and tobacco and currently benefits approximately one in eight Americans.