The U.S. Department of Agriculture has given the green light to Tennessee to ban the purchase of “junk food” with federal food stamps. Starting July 31st, 2026, SNAP recipients will no longer be able to use their benefits to buy soda, energy drinks, candy, or pre-packaged desserts. Under the new waiver, if a product lists sugar, corn syrup, or high-fructose corn syrup as its number one ingredient, it is officially off the list. However, state officials say there is a trade-off designed to help working families. For the first time, Tennessee SNAP benefits will cover hot, prepared rotisserie chicken and other hot, non-fried chicken options, items that have previously been prohibited.
Major Changes Coming to Tennesseans Using SNAP Benefits
Dec 23, 2025 | 10:51 AM