Changes to Idaho SNAP Purchases
Starting Feb. 15, 2026, SNAP benefits in Idaho can no longer be used to purchase candy or soda. This change supports the health and well-being of Idaho families by encouraging nutritious food choices.
The Department of Health and Welfare will continue sharing information to help customers prepare for this change. On this page, you’ll find updates, answers to common questions, and resources to help you understand what’s changing and what stays the same.
What You Can Buy with SNAP
You can still use SNAP benefits to buy a wide variety of healthy and essential foods, including:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Bread, rice, cereal, and pasta
- Dairy products
- Most other grocery items
What You Cannot Buy with SNAP
Starting Feb. 15, 2026, SNAP benefits in Idaho cannot be used to buy:
- Candy (including chocolate, gummies, and other sweets)
- Soda and other sugary drinks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tobacco products
- Hot, prepared foods meant to be eaten right away
- Non-food items (such as pet food, paper products, or household supplies)
At the Checkout
Here’s what to expect when you shop with your SNAP benefits starting Feb. 15, 2026:
- If you try to buy a restricted item, your SNAP card will not cover it.
- You can still pay for that item using cash, debit, or credit.
- Most foods are still covered — only a few categories are changing.
How are soda and candy defined?
What is Candy?
“Candy” is a preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients or flavorings in the form of confections, bars, drops, or pieces.
"Candy" shall not include any preparation containing flour and shall require no refrigeration.
What is Soda?
“Soda” is any nonalcoholic beverage that contains natural or artificial sweeteners.
Soda does not include beverages that:
- Contain milk or milk substitutes
- Are more than 50% fruit or vegetable juice by volume
- Require preparation before drinking, such as powders or concentrates
Product Identification Quick Reference
To better identify products, we have created two quick references for candy and soda. These references give a high-level overview of the types of products that are eligible and which are restricted under the new SNAP rules. These are general guidelines to understand the new definition and are not product specific.
Candy Matrix
Soda Matrix
Why This Change?
This change supports healthier choices and stronger families in Idaho. It follows state law passed in 2025 that requires the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) to remove candy and soda from foods eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits once federally approved.
Have Questions?
If you have questions about your SNAP benefits, call the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Customer Service Center at 877-456-1233, TTY 800-377-3529 Monday–Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM (MT).
If you have questions regarding the SNAP candy and soda restriction, email SNAPWaiver@dhw.idaho.gov.