North Dakota SNAP Benefits Get a No-Soda, No-Candy Makeover
Published Date: 11/3/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting November 1, 2026, North Dakota will run a special SNAP project that stops people from using benefits to buy soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy. This change aims to help families eat healthier while still getting the food support they need. If you live in North Dakota and use SNAP, this new rule could affect what you can buy with your benefits.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
SNAP benefits can’t buy soda, energy drinks, candy
If you live in North Dakota and receive SNAP, starting November 1, 2026 you cannot use SNAP benefits to buy “soft drinks,” “energy drinks,” or “candy.” This change applies only to purchases made with SNAP benefits in North Dakota under the State’s demonstration project.
You may still buy restricted items with non-SNAP money
The agency notes SNAP benefits are supplemental, so you can still buy soft drinks, energy drinks, and candy in North Dakota using non-SNAP funds (for example cash, debit, or credit) even after November 1, 2026.
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Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-22387, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: State of South Carolina SNAP Demonstration Project
Starting November 1, 2026, South Carolina will run a special SNAP project that stops people from using benefits to buy candy, energy drinks, soda, and other sweetened drinks. This change aims to help families eat healthier while still getting the support they need. If you live in South Carolina and use SNAP, this new rule will affect what you can buy with your benefits.
Next: 2026-22389, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: State of Montana SNAP Demonstration Project
Starting November 1, 2026, Montana will launch a special SNAP project to try new ways of helping families get better food support. This project aims to make SNAP easier to use and improve nutrition for people who qualify. Montana’s changes were approved after public feedback, and the government will watch closely to see how well it works.