BATON ROUGE, La. — On Monday, August 4, 2025, U.S. Secretary Brooke Rollins signed a waiver prohibiting the use of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to purchase junk food in Louisiana, aligning with the national Make America Healthy Again initiative. Effective January 2026, the policy will bar SNAP recipients from buying items such as sodas, candy, chips, cookies, and dips, which are commonly classified as unhealthy due to high sugar, sodium, or fat content.
The waiver stems from an executive order signed by Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry in May 2025, directing the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to request the restriction from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. hailed the decision, noting Louisiana’s inclusion among six states adopting similar SNAP waivers to promote healthier diets.
“For years, SNAP has used taxpayer dollars to fund soda, candy, chips, and other junk foods that fuel America’s diabetes and chronic disease epidemics,” Kennedy said. “These waivers refocus the program on real, nutritious food and empower states to prioritize public health.”
If a SNAP user attempts to purchase prohibited items like chips, cookies, or dips after the policy takes effect, the transaction will be declined at the point of sale. Retail systems will be updated to flag ineligible items, ensuring compliance. SNAP recipients can still use their benefits for approved foods, including fresh produce, grains, and other nutritious options.
The initiative seeks to improve health outcomes by encouraging better eating habits among Louisiana’s SNAP participants. State and federal officials are preparing to roll out educational efforts to inform recipients about the changes and ensure a smooth transition.
