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Tennessee to Seek SNAP Waiver for Sugary Food Ban After 12 States Gain Approval

Tennessee’s plan to seek waivers will remove foods with sugar or high-fructose corn syrup as primary ingredients, curbing diet-related illnesses among low-income families.

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Overview

  • Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee announced plans to request USDA waivers that would bar sugary processed foods and sodas from SNAP, making Tennessee the 13th state to pursue junk food purchase restrictions.
  • Under the proposal, any food listing sugar, corn syrup or high-fructose corn syrup as the first ingredient and carbonated sugary beverages would be excluded from food stamp purchases.
  • USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins has approved junk food ban waivers for 12 states under the Make America Healthy Again initiative, all set to take effect in 2026.
  • State waiver details vary widely: Florida’s rules cover soda, energy drinks, candy and desserts, while other states focus on soft drinks and candy only.
  • Supporters say the restrictions aim to improve nutrition for SNAP’s 42 million participants, reduce obesity and lower public health-care costs.