S.C. bans SNAP purchases of sugary drinks, candy

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - South Carolina SNAP recipients will no longer be able to buy some sugary items, including most candy and soda, starting Sunday, Nov. 1, under the program.

The Healthy Food SC project - approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service - will exclude candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages from the list of foods eligible for purchase under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as SNAP or food stamps.

Diet and zero-sugar soft drinks will remain allowable purchases.

How the program came about

Gov. Henry McMaster announced his intent to pursue a federal waiver for the restrictions in August 2025, issuing an executive order in September directing the South Carolina Department of Social Services to submit the waiver request. The USDA approved the waiver.

Who is affected

All South Carolina SNAP-approved retailers will participate in the program. SNAP households will not have the option to opt out of the food restrictions.

In June 2026, the program provided SNAP benefits to 235,235 households representing 481,856 individuals, totaling $89,341,975 in federally funded benefits.

Click HERE for a list of what cannot be purchased under the program.

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