Lawmakers Consider Limiting Junk Food Purchases Using SNAP Benefits

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Latinos make up 15% of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients nationwide. In Delaware, lawmakers are considering restricting unhealthy food purchases with SNAP funds.

SNAP already has some restrictions. According to the USDA, recipients cannot use the assistance to buy beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco; any nonfood items; vitamins and medicines; any food that will be eaten in the store; and hot foods.

However, among the items food stamps can be used to purchase are soft drinks, energy drinks, candy, cookies, cakes, snack crackers and ice cream. Law makers in Delaware see banning certain junk foods as a public health issue, part of the state’s effort to promote wellness and reduce obesity.

The bill is expected to be introduced in the State House of Representatives in April 2014.

Read about the SNAP limitations in the news.