The state of Colorado is making a significant change to how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can be used starting in 2026. Most notably, Coloradans who rely on SNAP benefits will no longer be able to purchase soda and other sugary drinks with these funds. This decision, approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), reflects a growing effort among states to promote healthier eating habits for vulnerable populations by limiting the purchase of sugary beverages through food assistance programs.
In this article, we will explain the reasons behind this change, what exactly is affected, and what it means for Colorado residents and public health. We’ll keep the explanation simple enough for younger readers, while providing professional insights into the nutrition policy shift.
Soda and Sugary Drinks Now Exempted by USDA Starting 2026
| Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Effective Date | March 2026 |
| What’s Banned | Soda and sugary drinks with 5+ grams of sugar or sweetener per 12 oz |
| Allowed Beverages | Milk-based drinks, 100% fruit juice, baby formula |
| Health Goals | Reduce obesity, diabetes, tooth decay |
| Other Affected States | Florida, West Virginia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, among others |
| Colorado’s Obesity Rate | 24.9%, lowest in the nation but still a health concern |
| Official USDA Resource | USDA SNAP Waivers |
Starting in March 2026, Colorado will implement a landmark ban on SNAP-funded purchases of soda and sugary drinks, emphasizing healthier nutrition for vulnerable families. This change aligns with national trends supporting public health and appropriate use of food assistance benefits.
SNAP recipients are encouraged to adapt to these new rules by focusing on nutritious foods and approved beverages. For policymakers and professionals in public health, Colorado’s approach offers a model of how food assistance programs can evolve to combat diet-related diseases.
What is SNAP and Why Does It Matter?
SNAP, or the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, helps millions of low-income Americans buy groceries by providing monthly benefits on Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. While SNAP supports food security, the quality of the food purchased plays a big role in overall health. For many, SNAP benefits are a critical source of nutritious foods.
Historically, SNAP allowed the purchase of nearly all unprepared foods except alcohol. There has been debate about whether SNAP benefits should cover sugary drinks, since these add calories without nutrition and contribute to health issues like obesity and diabetes.
Why is Colorado Banning Soda and Sugary Drinks from SNAP?
Even though Colorado boasts the lowest obesity rate in the U.S. at 24.9%, Governor Jared Polis and public health experts argue this rate remains too high and harmful to residents’ health.
The state requested USDA approval to ban the purchase of soda and sugary beverages with SNAP funds to:
- Improve health outcomes by encouraging better dietary choices.
- Reduce rates of obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay through limiting access to sugary drinks.
- Address food deserts by promoting healthier grocery store offerings.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins emphasized that SNAP’s core purpose is to help low-income households access nutritious foods essential to their health and wellness. Roughly 20% of SNAP dollars nationwide have been spent on unhealthy items like soda and candy, which is counter to this goal.
Colorado’s ban represents a shift toward targeting taxpayer dollars toward healthier foods and beverages. This aligns with national efforts to curb diet-related diseases in at-risk populations.
What Drinks Are Affected and What is Still Allowed?
Starting March 2026, SNAP benefits in Colorado cannot be used to purchase:
- Soda and soft drinks.
- Energy drinks.
- Any beverages with 5 grams or more of added sugar or artificial sweetener per 12 fluid ounces.
The ban does not affect:
- Milk and milk-based beverages (including flavored milk).
- 100% fruit juices without added sugar.
- Baby formulas and infant nutrition drinks.
This keeps essential, nutritious drinks accessible for families while restricting sugary beverages driving poor health.
States Following Colorado’s Lead
Colorado is among several states approved by the USDA to restrict sugary drinks through SNAP, including Florida, West Virginia, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. In total, a dozen states have adopted waivers to limit purchases of soda, candy, and junk food with SNAP benefits.
These efforts signal a wider movement toward improving nutrition for low-income Americans and reducing chronic disease burden nationwide.
How Will This Affect SNAP Recipients and Retailers?
The goal of the policy is not to restrict access to food but to guide SNAP participants toward healthier choices:
- SNAP recipients will need to plan their purchases with awareness of new exclusions.
- Retailers will update checkout systems to prevent SNAP payments for banned beverages.
- States may continue to enhance SNAP by allowing benefits at farmers markets and restaurants, improving access to fresh food and prepared meals.
Step-By-Step Guide for Colorado SNAP Recipients
- Know the changes: From March 2026, soda and sugary drinks cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits.
- Focus on healthy drinks: Milk, 100% juice, and baby formula remain eligible.
- Plan grocery lists accordingly: Prioritize nutritious whole foods and approved beverages.
- Seek nutrition support: Utilize local food assistance resources for healthy shopping ideas.
- Encourage healthy habits: Using benefits for nutritious foods can positively impact well-being.
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FAQs About Soda and Sugary Drinks Now Exempted by USDA Starting 2026
Q: Why exclude soda and sugary drinks from SNAP?
A: Soda and sugary drinks contribute to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems. Excluding them supports healthier eating.
Q: Is diet soda covered?
A: No. Drinks with artificial sweeteners meeting the sugar/sweetener threshold are also excluded.
Q: Can I still buy milk and 100% fruit juice?
A: Yes, these remain eligible.
Q: How do retailers enforce this?
A: Point-of-sale systems will block SNAP benefit payments on banned items.
Q: Could this hurt SNAP users’ access to drinks?
A: The ban encourages healthier options, while still allowing essential beverages. It might require planning.
Q: Are other states doing this?
A: Yes, 12 states in total have approved similar bans.
