Montana Pushes Plan to Restrict Junk Food on SNAP

Montana officials have submitted a request to the federal government that could change what people are allowed to buy with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

The proposal would cut certain items from the list of approved purchases, mainly sugary drinks, candy, and processed snacks, in favor of foods considered more nutritious.

Which Foods Would Be Cut and Which Would Stay

If approved, the waiver would block SNAP funds from being spent on high-sugar beverages, energy drinks, candy, and packaged desserts. Everyday staples would still be covered. Milk, 100 percent fruit juice, protein bars, and fresh baked goods are among the items that would remain eligible.

The Health Argument Driving the Push

State leaders say the push is about encouraging healthier eating habits and improving long-term health outcomes.

Health officials have long pointed to rising rates of obesity, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes as reasons to rethink how food assistance dollars are spent. The thinking is that nudging people toward better food choices could make a real difference over time.

The Scale of the Program Being Targeted

SNAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households afford groceries. It supports millions of families across the country each year, making it one of the largest food assistance programs in the nation.

Federal data shows that a significant portion of SNAP dollars currently goes toward sugary or low-nutrition foods and drinks. That is exactly what Montana wants to address.

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Where the Request Stands Now

The request is now with the U.S. Department of Agriculture for review. If it gets the green light, Montana would join a small but growing number of states exploring or putting similar restrictions in place.

Until a decision is made, SNAP benefits and eligible purchases stay exactly as they are.