235,235 South Carolina households lose SNAP access to soda and candy on Nov. 1
The new rule takes effect Sunday, covering all state retailers and banning most sugary beverages and sweets.
By Ryan Davidson ·
South Carolina SNAP recipients will lose the ability to buy most sugary foods starting Sunday, Nov. 1.
The Healthy Food SC project takes effect under a federal waiver approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service. The program excludes candy, energy drinks, soft drinks, and sweetened beverages from the list of eligible items. Diet and zero-sugar soft drinks remain allowed purchases.
Gov. Henry McMaster announced his intent to pursue the federal waiver in August 2025. He issued an executive order in September directing the South Carolina Department of Social Services to submit the waiver request. The USDA subsequently approved the measure.
All South Carolina SNAP-approved retailers must participate in the program. Households do not have the option to opt out of the food restrictions. In June 2026, the program provided benefits to 235,235 households. These households represent 481,856 individuals. The total federally funded benefits amounted to $89,341,975.
The source article provides a link to a list of items that cannot be purchased under the program. No other exemptions or specific product details are listed in the report.
