NEW ORLEANS — SNAP recipients in Louisiana can no longer use their benefits to buy candy, soft drinks or energy drinks under new statewide restrictions that took effect on Ash Wednesday.
Supporters say the change promotes healthier choices, while critics question whether limiting certain purchases will meaningfully improve public health.
Under the new rules, recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP, are prohibited from purchasing candy, energy drinks and beverages with less than 50% fruit or vegetable juice using their benefits. Soft drinks are also included on the restricted list — even sugar-free options such as Coke Zero, which contains no sugar but is still classified as a soft drink…