SNAP Benefits in Indiana to Exclude Candy and Soft Drinks Beginning in 2026 – WKVI Information Center

According to a press release from the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food and Nutrition Service has approved a request from Indiana Family and Social Services Administration to amend the definition of food that is available for purchase through Indiana’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

According to the release, beginning January 1st, 2026, food that is defined by Indiana Code as a ‘soft drink’ or ‘candy’ will no longer be covered by SNAP in Indiana. This amendment will be in place for 2 years before being re-visited, and is one of the first of its kind in the country.

The release goes on to state that since this project is new, Food and Nutrition Services will review the results of this project carefully and comprehensively. They state that they intend to evaluate how this change impacts both SNAP participants and retailers.

According to documents accompanying the press release, Indiana’s definition of a soft drink is any nonalcoholic beverage that includes natural or artificial sweeteners. This term does not include beverages that contain milk or milk products, soy, rice, or similar milk substitutes; or beverages that are exclusively naturally sweetened using natural vegetable and/or fruit juice.

Indiana’s definition of candy is any preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners in combination with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients or flavorings; in the form of bars, drops, or pieces. This term does not include any preparation requiring refrigeration.

The document notes that this amendment will not effect provisions that allow certain populations of SNAP recipients to purchase prepared meals from facilities such as senior centers, domestic violence centers, substance misuse centers, and homeless shelters.

The state of Iowa is also implementing similar amendments to their state-provided food benefits.