Nebraska bans SNAP purchases of soda and energy drinks
- Nebraska has received a federal waiver to exclude soda and energy drinks from SNAP purchases beginning in 2026.
- This decision affects about 152,000 people enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in Nebraska.
- The action has sparked a debate over health implications and the stigma on SNAP recipients.
In a groundbreaking decision, Nebraska has been granted a federal waiver allowing the state to prohibit the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for the purchase of soda and energy drinks. This approval, announced by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, marks a historic shift in the SNAP program, which has traditionally allowed recipients to purchase a wide range of food items, including sugary beverages. The new restrictions will take effect on January 1, 2026, and will impact approximately 152,000 individuals who rely on SNAP in Nebraska. The move to ban soft drinks and energy drinks has sparked considerable debate regarding the implications of such restrictions. Proponents of the ban, including Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, argue that taxpayer funds should not subsidize unhealthy food choices, emphasizing that SNAP should focus on assisting families in obtaining nutritious food. Conversely, critics, including anti-hunger advocates and nutrition experts, warn that these restrictions could create additional stigma for SNAP beneficiaries and may not effectively tackle issues related to dietary health. Historically, attempts to impose similar limits on SNAP benefits have faced significant challenges. The USDA has previously denied requests from other states, stating that there was no clear classification of foods as