US EditionPublished • loading... • Updated
USDA Approves Tennessee's Waiver to Ban SNAP Candy, Soda Purchases
The waiver restricts sugary beverages and snacks from SNAP purchases and allows some prepared foods, aiming to reduce chronic disease and childhood obesity, USDA said.
- On Dec. 10, the U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Tennessee's waiver to restrict certain SNAP purchases, with implementation next year, as part of federal efforts to improve nutrition.
- Under Tennessee's plan, foods listing sugar or high‑fructose corn syrup and certain soft drinks would be ineligible for SNAP, while the waiver also expands eligibility to prepared hot foods like rotisserie chicken.
- Over 711,000 Tennesseans receive SNAP benefits, while about 11% of SNAP dollars nationwide pay for sweetened beverages and candy, with soda among the most frequently purchased items.
- Lee praised the waiver, saying it will strengthen families and promote healthier outcomes, while Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins called it `Make America Healthy Again` and said waivers reduce chronic disease and childhood obesity.
- Industry groups warn state-by-state waivers could confuse SNAP households and burden retailers, urging thorough evaluation while Virginia must train retailers, update systems, and notify households before its April 1, 2026 pilot.
Insights by Ground AI
12 Articles
12 Articles
The TennesseanReposted by 
USA Today
USA TodayUSDA approves Tennessee's waiver to ban SNAP candy, soda purchases
·Nashville, United States
Read Full Article
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left2Leaning Right3Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution55% Center
Bias Distribution
- 55% of the sources are Center
55% Center
L 18%
C 55%
R 27%
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
