Study finds SNAP soda bans cut purchases by 12% among beneficiaries

A new study shows that purchases of soda fell by roughly 12% among people receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits after the bans on soda and candy took effect in ten states. The reduction translates to about 34 fewer 12‑ounce cans per person each year.

The restrictions are part of the Make America Healthy Again initiative, which aims to limit the use of food assistance dollars for sugary drinks and sweets. Critics had warned that consumers might simply shift spending to other money sources to buy the same products.

Study authors say the decline is modest but meaningful, noting that any drop in sugary‑drink consumption could help address obesity and related health concerns. The research, released by the National Bureau of Economic Research, has not yet undergone peer review.