Nevada Bans Candy, Sugary Drinks from SNAP Benefits

State joins others testing if restrictions lead to healthier food choices

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Nevada has implemented a new policy that blocks the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase candy and sugary drinks. The state received a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to enact these restrictions, joining a growing number of states exploring whether such limits can encourage healthier food choices among SNAP recipients.

Why it matters

The goal of the SNAP program is to provide nutritious food to low-income households, but critics argue that allowing the purchase of unhealthy items like candy and soda undermines this objective. Proponents of the restrictions believe they will steer SNAP recipients towards more wholesome options, potentially improving public health outcomes.

The details

Under the new Nevada policy, SNAP benefits can no longer be used to buy items like chocolate, gummy bears, and sweetened beverages. The state received approval for the waiver from the USDA, which oversees the federal food assistance program. Nevada joins a handful of other states, including Maine and Massachusetts, that have implemented similar restrictions in recent years as part of a broader effort to promote healthier eating habits among SNAP participants.

  • The new SNAP restrictions in Nevada went into effect on March 1, 2026.

The players

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

The federal agency that oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and approved Nevada's waiver to restrict candy and sugary drink purchases.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

A federal food assistance program that provides benefits to low-income individuals and families to purchase eligible food items.

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What they’re saying

“Restricting SNAP benefits for unhealthy items is an important step towards improving nutrition and health outcomes for low-income families.”

— Sarah Johnson, Nutrition Policy Analyst (rgj.com)

What’s next

The USDA will monitor the impact of Nevada's new SNAP restrictions and may consider expanding the policy to other states if the results show improved dietary choices and health benefits among participants.

The takeaway

Nevada's decision to ban the use of SNAP benefits for candy and sugary drinks reflects a growing trend among states to leverage food assistance programs to promote healthier eating habits and address diet-related health disparities.