General · Texas behavioral health news
What Texans need to know about upcoming SNAP restrictions
Texas Tribune – Health · By Riddhi Bora, GRAPHICS BY Dan Keemahill · March 18, 2026
In plain language
Starting April 1, Texas will implement new restrictions on what people can buy with SNAP benefits, also known as food stamps. Under a new state law, benefits can no longer be used for candy, gum, or drinks with five grams or more of added sugar. Millions of Texans, including many children and families, will be affected by these changes at the grocery store. These restrictions are part of a larger effort to encourage healthier food choices among program participants.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Beginning April 1, Texans cannot use SNAP to buy candy or drinks with 5 grams or more of added sugar.
- Restricted items include gum, taffy, and fruits that have been coated in chocolate or yogurt.
- Items like milk, produce, and frozen treats with less than 50 percent fruit juice remain eligible for purchase.
- People will not lose their benefits for accidentally trying to buy a restricted food item.
- New work requirements now require many adults without dependents to work 80 hours a month to keep benefits.
- Retailers are responsible for updating their payment systems to block sales of the newly restricted items.
Candy bars and other sweets are displayed in the candy aisle of a convenience store in Austin on March 11, 2026. Beginning April 1, people will not be allowed to purchase candy and certain sweetened beverages using SNAP benefits. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.texastribune.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/20260311-Food-Stamps-Sugar-MS-07.jpg?fit=780%2C520&ssl=1" /> Starting April 1, Texans will no longer be allowed to use food stamps to buy sweetened beverages and candy. The post What Texans need to know about upcoming SNAP restrictions appeared first on The Texas Tribune.
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