New Bill Aims to Block Candy and Soda From Food Stamp Purchases in Utah

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A proposed bill in Utah aims to change how Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits—commonly known as food stamps—can be used in the state. Sponsored by Rep. Kristen Chevrier, R-Highland, HB403 seeks to prevent SNAP recipients from purchasing soda and candy with their benefits. The bill passed a committee vote 7-2 on Friday morning and is now moving forward in the legislative process.

Health Over Convenience

Chevrier introduced the bill by emphasizing the original intent of SNAP, which is to help low-income individuals afford nutritious food. “The program was designed to supplement healthy food choices, not to contribute to obesity, anxiety, depression, and chronic illness,” she said.

She pointed to data indicating that soda is the most frequently purchased item with SNAP funds, a trend that has raised concerns among lawmakers in Utah and beyond. As a result, Utah joins a growing number of states considering restrictions on unhealthy food purchases through SNAP.

National Perspective on SNAP Reform

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Joining the committee discussion virtually from Phoenix, Arizona, was health advocate Calley Means, a former adviser to Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Means argued that the widespread use of SNAP benefits for soda purchases is a major issue in public health.

“There is no clearer example of a policy failure than the fact that the top SNAP purchase is soda,” Means stated. He also addressed concerns about consumer choice, arguing that large corporations like Pepsi and Coca-Cola have lobbied aggressively to ensure their products remain eligible for SNAP. “This isn’t about personal choice. It’s about major companies spending tens of millions to keep their products on the list.”

Means also referenced federal discussions on SNAP reform. While acknowledging that congressional changes could take time, he urged individual states to take action now. “If Utah takes the lead, other states may follow, and that could put pressure on Congress,” he said.

Opposition and Concerns

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Despite gaining committee approval, HB403 has faced opposition from advocacy groups, particularly Utahns Against Hunger. Their primary concern is that restricting soda and candy could set a precedent for further limitations on SNAP purchases.

“The fear is that this opens the door to banning other food items, like canned spaghetti sauce,” Chevrier explained. However, she reassured the committee that her focus is solely on eliminating soda and candy due to their lack of nutritional value.

Defining the Restrictions

The bill provides clear definitions for what would be restricted. Candy is classified as a prepared food containing sugar, honey, or artificial sweeteners combined with ingredients like chocolate, fruit, or nuts, in bar, drop, or piece form. The bill specifically exempts protein bars with no added sugar.

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A soft drink is defined as a carbonated, nonalcoholic beverage flavored and sweetened with sugar or artificial sweeteners. Beverages containing milk, milk substitutes, or at least 50% fruit or vegetable juice are not considered soft drinks under the bill’s guidelines.

The Path to Implementation

Because SNAP is a federally regulated program, Utah must apply for waivers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to implement the changes. These waivers must justify the policy shift, outline an implementation plan, and ensure compliance with federal guidelines.

Means expressed confidence that a waiver request under the current federal administration would be successful if supported by sufficient data.

“We have a real chance to make a meaningful change,” he said. “If Utah leads, we could set a precedent for nationwide reform.”

With similar measures under consideration in at least 20 other states, Utah’s HB403 is part of a larger movement seeking to reshape SNAP to better align with public health priorities. Whether the bill will become law remains to be seen, but its passage through committee marks a significant step in the debate over nutrition and government assistance programs .

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