Rock Hill, South Carolina, December 11, 2025
The USDA has approved South Carolina’s exclusion of candy, energy drinks, and sweetened beverages from the SNAP program, effective August 31, 2026. Governor McMaster supports this initiative to promote healthier eating habits. The state joins 17 others in implementing similar restrictions to combat diet-related diseases. Community reactions are mixed, highlighting the balance needed between public health and SNAP recipients’ choices.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – December 12, 2025
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved South Carolina’s request to exclude candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages from the list of eligible items under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. This change is set to take effect on August 31, 2026.
Governor Henry McMaster expressed gratitude for the approval, stating that the initiative aligns with the state’s efforts to promote healthier eating habits among residents. By encouraging families to purchase nutritious foods instead of sugary and processed items, the state aims to maximize the benefits of federal taxpayer dollars and support the “Make America Healthy Again” initiative.
South Carolina joins 17 other states, including Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Missouri, North Dakota, Virginia, and Tennessee, in implementing similar restrictions on SNAP purchases. These measures are part of a broader effort to address public health concerns related to excessive sugar consumption and diet-related diseases.
Details of the SNAP Restrictions
The USDA’s approval follows Governor McMaster’s executive order in September 2025, directing the South Carolina Department of Social Services to submit the waiver request. The order defined specific categories of items to be excluded from SNAP eligibility, including:
- Candy
- Energy drinks
- Soft drinks
- Sweetened beverages
These categories were defined as follows:
- Candy: A preparation of sugar, honey, or other natural or artificial sweeteners combined with chocolate, fruits, nuts, or other ingredients in the form of bars, drops, or pieces. Exclusions include protein bars, granola bars, and baking ingredients.
- Energy drinks: Beverages containing at least 65 milligrams of caffeine per 8 fluid ounces, marketed as providing metabolic stimulation or an increase in mental or physical energy. Excludes coffee, tea, and substantially coffee- or tea-based beverages.
- Soft drinks: Non-alcoholic beverages made with carbonated water and flavored or sweetened with sugar or other natural or artificial sweeteners.
- Sweetened beverages: Any sweetened beverage, flavored or sweetened with 5 grams or more of added sugar or other natural or artificial sweeteners, ready for consumption without further processing, such as sweetened coffee, tea, lemonade, and other non-carbonated drinks.
Items exempt from these restrictions include beverages containing milk, milk substitutes, or more than 50% natural fruit or vegetable juice without added caloric sweeteners, as well as products commonly referred to as “infant” or “baby” formula, sports or rehydration beverages, carbonated water beverages, and any beverage for medical use.
Impact on Local Grocery Stores
The implementation of these restrictions is anticipated to have significant impacts on grocery stores across South Carolina, including Rock Hill. Retailers will need to update point-of-sale systems and conduct staff training to ensure compliance with the new regulations. There is also an ongoing need for clarity on specific product definitions to maintain consistent offerings across stores.
This new policy represents a step toward responsible federal spending and local accountability, while potentially benefiting local grocers who prioritize healthier product offerings. With a solid customer base focused on well-being, local businesses can thrive under these guidelines.
Community Response and Future Implications
The move has garnered mixed responses from community members, with some lauding the effort to promote healthier eating habits, while others express concern over limiting choices for families in need. Balancing public health initiatives with the autonomy of SNAP recipients remains a complex challenge. As this initiative rolls out, it will be crucial for local stakeholders to engage in conversations about sustainability and nutrition education within the community.
Conclusion
In summary, the upcoming SNAP restrictions in South Carolina mark a significant shift in public assistance regulations aimed at encouraging healthier eating habits among families. With proper implementation and community support, this initiative could foster a culture of health and nutrition that benefits both residents and local businesses. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and support rock-solid local businesses that align with these health goals as we look to a healthier future for Rock Hill and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What items are excluded from SNAP purchases in South Carolina?
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved South Carolina’s request to exclude candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages from the list of eligible items under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps. This change is set to take effect on August 31, 2026.
When will these restrictions be implemented?
The change is set to take effect on August 31, 2026.
Which other states have implemented similar restrictions?
South Carolina joins 17 other states, including Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Missouri, North Dakota, Virginia, and Tennessee, in implementing similar restrictions on SNAP purchases. These measures are part of a broader effort to address public health concerns related to excessive sugar consumption and diet-related diseases.
What items are exempt from these restrictions?
Items exempt from these restrictions include beverages containing milk, milk substitutes, or more than 50% natural fruit or vegetable juice without added caloric sweeteners, as well as products commonly referred to as “infant” or “baby” formula, sports or rehydration beverages, carbonated water beverages, and any beverage for medical use.
How will these restrictions affect grocery stores?
The implementation of these restrictions is anticipated to have significant impacts on grocery stores, requiring updates to point-of-sale systems and staff training to ensure compliance. Retailers are seeking clarity on specific product definitions to maintain consistency across stores.
Key Features of the SNAP Restrictions in South Carolina
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Items Excluded from SNAP Purchases | Candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages |
| Implementation Date | August 31, 2026 |
| Exempt Items | Beverages containing milk, milk substitutes, or more than 50% natural fruit or vegetable juice without added caloric sweeteners; products commonly referred to as “infant” or “baby” formula; sports or rehydration beverages; carbonated water beverages; and any beverage for medical use |
| States with Similar Restrictions | Florida, Texas, Hawaii, Missouri, North Dakota, Virginia, and Tennessee |
| Retailer Impact | Updates to point-of-sale systems and staff training required to ensure compliance |
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