Why It’s Still Unclear Exactly How Much Banning Soda from SNAP Could Improve Health

Public health communicators may soon gain valuable data on the impact of restricting soda purchases with SNAP benefits—a long-debated proposal aimed at curbing chronic disease. Sugar-sweetened beverages are the top item bought with SNAP, contributing significantly to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. For years, efforts to test restrictions faced opposition from the soda industry and lacked USDA support.

But that’s changing, with the USDA and HHS backing pilot programs to assess outcomes. Experts stress the need for data-driven, respectful approaches that avoid stigmatizing low-income communities. If effective, restrictions could mirror successful soda taxes and labeling laws, offering a new tool for advancing public health. Read more from STAT News here.