Big changes are coming to the food stamp program in Indiana. The USDA has approved a new test that changes what families can buy with their benefits.
In the past, SNAP let you buy almost any food for your home. But starting January 1, 2026, Indiana will ban certain items to see if it changes how people eat.
Here is what is banned, what is safe, and how this affects low-income families.
New Rules Block Soda & Candy
The new rules ban two main things: Soft Drinks and Candy. Let’s see how the state of Indiana defines those two items.
Soft Drinks
Starting in 2026, you cannot buy drinks with added sugar or artificial sweeteners. This includes most sodas and sports drinks.
However, the rule does not apply to drinks that are only sweetened with vegetable or fruit juice. It also does not apply to drinks that contain milk, milk products or milk substitutes, either.
Candy
New rules will also prevent you from purchasing candy with your SNAP benefits. The state defines candy as bars, drops or pieces made out of sugar, honey or other sweeteners mixed with chocolate, fruit, nuts or other ingredients.
Interestingly, the state said that if the item needs to be kept in the fridge or freezer, it is not considered candy. This means ice cream or refrigerated sweets might still be okay.
Things You Should Know
There are several things that you should be aware of before this change goes into effect on January 1, 2026.
You are automatically enrolled. There is no way to “skip” this pilot program. The ban on candy and sugary drinks isn’t optional—it will apply to every single SNAP shopper in Indiana.
You can opt-out of the surveys. While you have to follow the shopping rules, you don’t have to provide additional information. The state will ask families to take health surveys or join nutrition classes to see if the experiment is succeeding. You have the right to say “no” to those extra questions.
The state will be gathering data on purchase trends. The state has to report if shopping habits move across state lines. They want to see if banning soda in Indiana just pushes people to drive into Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, or Illinois to buy it instead.
Crossing state lines is not a crime. It is important to know that using your EBT card in a neighboring state is still completely legal. If you shop in Kentucky or Ohio, you will not lose your benefits and it is not considered fraud. The state is just tracking the total numbers, not investigating you personally.
How to Prepare
If your family relies on these products, the transition might be bumpy. Here is a checklist to help you get ready for the new rules:
Watch Your Mail. The State of Indiana is required to educate you before this starts. Keep an eye out for official flyers or letters in late 2025.
Check Your Juice Labels If you drink fruit punch or lemonade, check the label now. If the label says “100% Juice” or “Contains 100% Juice,” it will remain SNAP-eligible.
Switch Your Sweets Strategy. If you have a sweet tooth, look for items in the freezer or refrigerator aisle. A chocolate bar on the shelf is banned. A chocolate ice cream bar in the freezer is allowed. Refrigerated cakes, pies, or puddings are generally safe under the new rules.
Relief Recap
The good news is that your total benefit amount is not being cut, and you can still buy some treats like ice cream. Just remember to check labels starting in January, and know that using your card in other states is still perfectly legal.
This article was drafted with AI assistance and fully fact-checked by Nicole Thelin. Learn more about our Responsible AI Use Policy.