JACKSON — Families in Mississippi who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) might soon face new rules on food purchases. The state is considering limiting what can be bought with SNAP benefits, potentially restricting items like soda and candy.
Currently, SNAP allows families to buy almost any food from grocery stores, including sugary drinks and snacks. If Mississippi files for a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, some of these items could be excluded from the program, similar to moves made by more than a dozen other states, which begin in 2026.
Governor Tate Reeves has acknowledged the proposal but has not yet looked at a formal plan. This change is part of the broader “Make America Healthy Again” initiative that began under the Trump administration, which encourages states to limit junk food purchases with SNAP to improve public health and reduce healthcare costs.
Nutrition experts, such as Dr. Alicia Landry from The University of Southern Mississippi, say these changes reflect strategies used in other federal programs like those for school lunches and mothers and children. She notes that shifting eating habits can be tough for families, especially if they are accustomed to buying sugary drinks and treats.
“Switching from these habits can be hard,” Dr. Landry explains. “Our bodies tend to crave sugar and salt. Adjusting to less can cause real cravings.”
Families can start preparing for possible changes now by making small adjustments. For example, replacing one sugary drink each day with water or flavored options can be a good start. Snacks can also be swapped—pretzels or popcorn might be better choices than sugary cakes. Fresh fruits can provide natural sweetness with fewer calories; for example, an apple has about half the sugar of a soda.
Changing shopping habits doesn’t always mean higher costs. Surprisingly, some juices can be cheaper per ounce than soda, and making snacks at home can stretch SNAP dollars further than buying pre-packaged items, though this may require up-front costs.
SNAP is essential for many in Mississippi. It helps 384,800 residents, which is about 13% of the state’s population. Nationally, over 41.6 million people depend on SNAP. Interestingly, more than two-thirds of SNAP participants in Mississippi live in families with children, while many also include seniors or individuals with disabilities.
The debate over food purchases with SNAP ties into a larger issue of balancing access to food, nutrition, and cost. As discussions progress, understanding who relies on SNAP and how it operates will be vital for families and policymakers alike.
For more information on SNAP and its impact, you can visit the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.
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