Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pushes to ban sugary drinks from SNAP benefits
Photo: Reuters
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has proposed a new policy that would ban the purchase of sugary drinks using federal food assistance under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
The move is part of a broader strategy to improve public health and reduce rates of chronic conditions like diabetes.
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According to Kennedy, roughly 10% of the program’s $405 million daily expenditure is spent on sugary beverages. When including candy, that figure rises to as much as 17%. By eliminating these options from SNAP-eligible purchases, Kennedy hopes to shift the program’s focus toward nutritional wellness and preventative health measures.
The proposal includes the approval of waivers for states such as Florida, West Virginia, and Texas to pilot stricter SNAP purchasing guidelines. These waivers would allow state governments to block the purchase of sugary sodas and related items as part of their own health initiatives.
Kennedy emphasized the long-term healthcare costs associated with sugar-related diseases like obesity and diabetes, especially among low-income populations who rely heavily on SNAP for their nutrition. Supporters of the reform argue that steering SNAP recipients toward healthier food options could reduce strain on the healthcare system and improve quality of life.
If implemented, this would mark one of the most significant shifts in SNAP policy in recent years, drawing both praise and controversy over federal control of food choices. The proposal now awaits further federal review and state implementation.