BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — People in Louisiana participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) will no longer be able to buy certain food items sold at stores using benefits starting in January 2026.

A SNAP food restriction waiver was approved Aug. 4 by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Gov. Jeff Landry signed an order in May directing the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services to submit the waiver as he pushes for families to make healthy food choices.

“Gone are the days of taxpayers subsidizing unhealthy lifestyles and eating habits. With today’s waiver signing, I am proud to say that Louisiana isn’t just participating in the MAHA movement, we are leading it,” Landry said.

Multiple U.S. states had waivers approved with requests to limit the use of SNAP benefits for soft drinks, energy drinks, and/or candy. Southern states near Louisiana with approved waivers are Arkansas, Florida, and Texas.

Here’s what to know about Louisiana SNAP food restrictions.

When does it take effect?

The purchase of soft drinks, energy drinks and candy will be barred from SNAP benefits for two years starting Jan. 15, 2026. The state can choose to apply for an extension in the future.

Can SNAP recipients opt out of food restrictions?

The waiver applies to all Louisiana SNAP benefit recipients and no household can opt out.

Can SNAP recipients still buy restricted foods?

Louisiana Health Secretary Bruce Greenstein said SNAP recipients can still purchase sodas, energy drinks and candy, but those items can’t be bought using benefits at checkout.

Restrictions apply to candy, certain drinks

Soft drinks: This includes any carbonated nonalcoholic drink with high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners.

Energy drinks: This includes carbonated or non-carbonated drinks with a stimulant like fortified caffeine, guarana, glucuronolactone, or taurine. The restriction could include energy drinks with herbal extracts or high doses or organic acids.

Candy: Restrictions will be applied for candy made with sugar, honey or other natural or artificial sweeteners along with chocolate, fruits, nuts or other ingredients or flavorings. This includes candy bars, drops or pieces.

A summary of the waiver said restrictions do not apply to protein bars, granola bars or baking ingredients like sprinkles, chocolate melting wafers, toffee bits or chocolate chips.