Excluding Candy, Sugary Drinks from SNAP Benefits

01/25/2026

Indiana recently announced the launch of Smart SNAP, prohibiting SNAP benefits from being used to purchase sugary drinks and candy. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides food assistance to low- and no-income individuals and families. Beginning Jan. 1, the program will no longer cover the cost of sugary drinks and candy, as part of the Make Indiana Healthy Again plan. Indiana was one of the first states to secure a U.S. Department of Agriculture waiver for this change to help facilitate healthier choices and improved health outcomes for Hoosiers. Click here to learn more about the state’s definitions of candy and sugary drinks.
For more information about Indiana’s SNAP program, click here. Sincerely, Tim O’Brien State Representative