Nebraska Becomes First State to Restrict Soda and Energy Drink Purchases with SNAP Benefits

Nebraska has made history by becoming the first state authorized to impose restrictions on purchasing soda and energy drinks using the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. Announced by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, this policy will impact approximately 152,000 low-income residents across Nebraska, starting from January 1, 2026. The initiative aims to promote healthier eating habits by limiting the sale of nutritionally poor beverages with public funds.

Nebraska's governor, Jim Pillen, emphasized that taxpayer dollars should not subsidize the purchase of sugary drinks, stating, "There's no justification for public money to support soda and energy drinks." He explained that SNAP is intended to provide nutritious food to families in need, and removing less nutritious items aligns with this goal. Previously, SNAP benefits could be used broadly to buy any food items for human consumption, excluding alcohol, tobacco, and hot foods.

The move follows calls from health officials and policymakers advocating for stricter controls over what eligible individuals can buy with SNAP benefits. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and others have championed a more health-conscious approach, considering the long-term benefits for public health.

While some states like Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Indiana, Iowa, and West Virginia have also shown interest in similar waivers, Nebraska's decision marks a significant step toward reorienting nutritional assistance programs towards healthier choices. However, critics such as Gina Plata-Nino from the Food Research & Action Center argue that research supports incentive-based strategies rather than restrictive bans, cautioning that restrictions could lead to higher costs, confusion, and stigma among vulnerable populations.

The specifics of Nebraska's restrictions have not yet been fully detailed, but the policy represents a broader national discussion on how to balance nutrition, personal choice, and welfare program integrity.

For more information on SNAP, visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-nebraska-state-soda-energy-snap.html