Louisiana recipients of the USDA Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, can no longer use their benefit cards to purchase soft drinks, energy drinks or candy.
Louisiana Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein says the state received a waiver from the USDA that prevents SNAP recipients from using government assistance to purchase these items.
“Anything that is carbonated beverage with high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners, out. Energy drinks, out. And candy, like gum, mints, traditional candy bars,” Greenstein said.
Greenstein hopes this change will result in SNAP recipients purchasing healthier foods.
“It’s really about using the SNAP benefit to buy fruits and vegetables, meats. Whether it’s chicken, beef, fish, dairy products, breads and cereals,” Greenstein explained.
Greenstein says SNAP recipients can still purchase soda, energy drinks and candy — but not on the public’s dime.
“If people would like to enjoy a can of pop, or they want a candy bar, they could use their own money. We encourage them to do it in moderation,” Greenstein said.
Greenstein says they have informed SNAP recipients of the change.