Overview
- The proposal would require seven varieties in each of the four staple categories—dairy, protein, grains, and fruits and vegetables—up from three.
- The rule would close loopholes that let certain snack foods count as staples and simplify classifications for easier compliance and enforcement.
- USDA says the changes aim to improve access to healthy, whole foods while reducing trafficking, skimming, and other fraud.
- Nearly 266,000 authorized retailers redeem about $96 billion in SNAP benefits annually, underscoring the scale of the expected impact.
- The initiative complements earlier approvals allowing 12 states to block some junk‑food purchases starting in 2026 under Make America Healthy Again.