Some SNAP shoppers must prepare for new junk food ban at major grocery stores

Southern shoppers are bracing for a crackdown on junk food.New SNAP restrictions will prohibit some shoppers at Walmart and other major grocery stores from buying certain controversial items in South Carolina.Under the Southern state’s new policy, SNAP shoppers will no longer be able to use their benefits to purchase sugary foods and drinks.South Carolina’s junk food crackdown will begin on November 1, 2026, according to the state’s Department of Social Services.Long known as food stamps, SNAP provides food assistance to eligible households and supports approximately 42 million Americans.The monthly benefit, which is delivered on debit cards that can be used only for groceries, is $344 per household on average.Under the federal statute, SNAP benefits can generally be applied to any food intended for home consumption with the exception of alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods.In South Carolina, the new policy will restrict the purchase of candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages across the state, including at grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers’ markets, and online retailers.The candy ban encompasses chocolate, fruit or nut-based bars, drops and pieces; however, protein and granola bars will still be allowed.The beverage ban also excludes coffee, tea, milk-based beverages and the majority of fruit and vegetable juices.Other exemptions include baby formula, sports drinks, carbonated water and medically necessary beverages.Items that used to be SNAP-eligible may no longer ring up at checkout, and/or customers could see “item not allowed” messages when trying to buy groceries online or with an EBT card.Customers can still purchase these restricted items with another form of payment, including self-checkout — but they may run into issues at the ring-up.

For in-store purchases, experts recommend opting for regular checkout over self-checkout, as cashiers may be able to provide clarity and assistance.For shoppers confused abou...