Arkansas moves to ban ‘junk food’ from SNAP program

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders made headlines this week with her announcement to eliminate ‘junk food’ from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in the state. Sanders stated that taxpayers have been ‘subsidizing poor health’ and that it was time to make a change.

At a press conference held at the Arkansas Capitol, Sanders revealed that her administration had submitted a waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in an effort to ban items like soda, candy, and snacks made with flour from being purchased with SNAP benefits. Instead, the plan is to expand eligible items to include healthier options like hot rotisserie chicken.

Sanders emphasized the need for this change, pointing out that currently individuals can use food stamps to buy a soft drink or candy bar, but not a locally sourced hot rotisserie chicken from a grocery store. She called the current situation ‘crazy’ and stressed the importance of promoting healthier food choices.

U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins commended Sanders’ initiative, stating that she is taking a proactive approach to combatting childhood disease by focusing on what families consume. Rollins expressed support for the waiver request and encouraged other states to follow Arkansas’ lead in promoting healthier eating habits.

The waiver request is part of the Trump administration’s ‘Make America Healthy Again’ (MAHA) agenda, which aims to address chronic disease and healthcare costs by reforming federal nutrition programs. Sanders highlighted the importance of prevention over treatment in tackling health issues and emphasized the need for SNAP reform as a crucial starting point.

The proposed changes to SNAP in Arkansas would impact nearly 350,000 residents enrolled in the program and are set to take effect in July 2026 if approved. Sanders noted that a significant portion of SNAP spending is currently allocated towards junk food items, while the state spends millions treating chronic illnesses through programs like Medicaid.

Critics of the plan have argued that the restrictions are punitive and unsupported by data, with trade groups representing beverage and candy manufacturers expressing concerns. However, Sanders defended the move, stating that it was not about taking anything away but rather ensuring that taxpayers no longer cover the cost of unhealthy food options.

Arkansas Department of Human Services Secretary Kristi Putnam echoed Sanders’ sentiments, emphasizing the need to realign resources to promote healthier choices and prevent chronic diseases caused by poor nutrition. The waiver request has been formally submitted and is currently open for public comment.

Overall, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ efforts to eliminate ‘junk food’ from the SNAP program in Arkansas have sparked a national conversation about the importance of promoting healthy eating habits and addressing chronic disease through nutrition. If approved, this initiative could set a precedent for other states looking to reform their nutrition assistance programs.