USDA Approves Ohio’s Plan to Ban Sugary Soda Purchases through SNAP

The federal government has approved Ohio's request to prohibit the purchase of sugary carbonated drinks through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), state officials announced Wednesday.

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) Director Matt Damschroder said the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) granted the state’s waiver request, allowing Ohio to restrict certain beverages from being purchased with SNAP benefits beginning Oct. 1. The waiver prohibits SNAP recipients from buying beverages that list sugar, corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup or similar caloric sweeteners as the primary ingredient — or as the second ingredient if the first ingredient is carbonated water.

Damschroder said the change is aimed at promoting healthier choices among Ohioans who receive food assistance benefits.

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