# Plain Language Summary: Healthy SNAP Act of 2023

This bill would change what foods people can buy with SNAP benefits (formerly known as food stamps). Right now, SNAP allows people to purchase most foods except alcohol, tobacco, and hot prepared foods. This bill would add more restrictions by banning the purchase of soft drinks, candy, ice cream, and prepared desserts like cakes, cookies, and pies. The government would have six months to create official rules about which specific foods qualify and which don't.

The bill requires the Department of Agriculture to decide which foods are allowed based on nutrition science and what nutrients are missing from people's diets. The goal is to steer SNAP recipients toward healthier choices that support better health outcomes. The department would also need to review these approved foods at least every five years to make sure the list reflects the latest nutrition research. Additionally, the bill allows states some flexibility to swap in different foods that are nutritionally equivalent, so that people from different cultural backgrounds can still buy foods that match their traditional eating patterns.

The practical effect would be that millions of Americans who receive SNAP benefits would have less choice in what they can purchase with their benefits. Someone buying groceries couldn't use their SNAP card on a bottle of soda or a box of cookies, even though they could today. Supporters argue this would improve public health by encouraging better nutrition, while critics worry it could be seen as government overreach into personal food choices and might make shopping more complicated for families already struggling financially.

Healthy SNAP Act of 2023

Brecheen, Josh

Healthy SNAP Act of 2023This bill amends the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to redefine the foods eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.SNAP benefits may not be used for soft drinks, candy, ice cream, or prepared desserts, such as cakes, pies, cookies, or similar products.Further, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) must designate by regulation foods and food products to include in the SNAP definition of the term food. USDA must consider food and products that (1) based on nutrition research, contain nutrients lacking in the diets of people in the United States; and (2) promote the health of the population served by SNAP, based on relevant nutrition science, public health concerns, and cultural eating patterns. USDA must also, to the maximum extent practicable, ensure that the fat, sugar, and salt content of the food and food products are appropriate. At least every five years, USDA must review and amend the list.Prepared meals purchased with SNAP benefits must have nutritional values consistent with standards developed by USDA for the list of food and food products.&nbsp;A state agency may substitute different foods for food USDA designated under this bill, with USDA approval, so long as the foods are nutritionally equivalent; this is permitted to allow for different cultural eating patterns.