HOUSTON — A Texas law restricting SNAP purchases of certain sugary items went into effect on April 1, 2026. The policy, derived from Senate Bill 379 passed in 2025, prohibits SNAP benefits from being used to buy candy and sugary drinks containing five or more grams of added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

SNAP recipients in Texas can still use benefits to purchase chips and cookies. If they want to buy soda, sweet tea, or items with artificial sweeteners, they must pay out of pocket. The average SNAP recipient in Texas receives $188 per month, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

Houston-area resident Lisa McWashington reported receiving about $285 monthly for her child and $135 for herself in SNAP benefits. “I have to be more careful now about what I buy with my benefits.”

Robert Thomas, owner of District Market Green Grocer in Houston, said approximately 10 percent of his monthly revenue comes from SNAP. He advised customers to adjust their shopping habits and buy only what they need. “People are still coming in, but they’re asking more questions about what’s allowed.”

Supporters of the law say its goal is to encourage healthier eating habits and reduce taxpayer-funded healthcare costs associated with diet-related illness. As of May 2026, there is no data showing improved health outcomes from the SNAP sugar ban, and there is no clear evidence that people are buying fewer sugary items under the new restrictions.

Texas Health and Human Services is collecting feedback from SNAP recipients about changes in their shopping and eating habits through a confidential survey.