Colorado SNAP Bans Soda, Expands to Markets, Restaurants in 2026
Let’s kick things off with the big news from The Colorado Sun, published August 4, 2025. Starting in 2026, Coloradans using SNAP, or food stamps, won’t be able to buy soda or sugary drinks with their benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved this waiver in May 2025, following a request from Colorado to promote healthier eating. Drinks with 5 grams or more of sugar or artificial sweetener per 12 ounces are off-limits, but milk-based drinks and 100% juice are still okay. Governor Jared Polis says this move aims to reduce Colorado’s obesity rate (24.9%), diabetes, and tooth decay, making it a “big step” toward better health.
But that’s not all—Colorado’s also waiting for USDA approval to let SNAP users buy hot grocery foods, like rotisserie chickens, and use benefits at farmers’ markets and restaurants. This could be a game-changer for older adults who struggle to cook or access fresh produce. Polis believes the soda ban will shrink “food deserts” by encouraging stores to stock more nutritious options. Five other states—West Virginia, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas—got similar waivers, aligning with a national push called “Make America Healthy Again,” backed by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy. While the policy promises healthier diets, some worry about affordability and access, especially in rural areas. Stay tuned as we unpack what this means for you!