OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Three more states are implementing additional SNAP restrictions this week, banning sugary drinks and candy from the list of approved food items.
Several states nationwide requested waivers from the United States Department of Agriculture, requesting that they modify their restricted food definitions. The changes vary slightly state to state, but in most cases make soda, candy or energy drinks off limits.
Oklahoma is now one of the states with a new list of items that recipients won’t be allowed to purchase with their benefits in 2026. Retailers in the state can no longer accept SNAP EBT payments for soft drinks or candy.
OK SNAP regulations start in February, no soft drinks or candy
According to the USDA, soft drinks are defined as “any beverage marketed or sold as a soda, soft drink, sports drink, energy drink, flavored water, or juice drink containing less than 100% juice.” The waiver also states that soft drinks include all fountain drinks and slushies, regardless of flavor or packaging…