BOISE, ID — Candy and soda will no longer be eligible purchases under Idaho’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program beginning Feb. 15, 2026, according to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

Under the change, SNAP benefits in Idaho cannot be used to buy candy, soda, or other sugary drinks. The restriction follows a state law passed in 2025 that requires the department to remove those items from SNAP-eligible foods once federal approval was granted .

The department said most food items currently covered by SNAP will remain eligible. SNAP benefits can still be used to purchase fruits and vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, bread, rice, cereal, pasta, dairy products, and most other grocery staples .

In addition to candy and soda, SNAP benefits also cannot be used to purchase alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, hot prepared foods meant to be eaten immediately, or non-food items such as household supplies and pet food .

State officials said shoppers who attempt to buy restricted items will still be able to purchase them using another form of payment, such as cash, debit, or credit, but SNAP benefits will not cover those items at checkout .

The Department of Health and Welfare has published guidance explaining how candy and soda are defined under the new rules. Candy is defined as sweetened confections that do not contain flour and do not require refrigeration. Soda is defined as nonalcoholic beverages containing natural or artificial sweeteners, with exceptions for drinks that contain milk, are more than 50% juice, or require preparation before drinking .

The department said it will continue providing information and resources to help SNAP recipients prepare for the change. Customers with questions can contact the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare Customer Service Center at 877-456-1233 or email SNAPWaiver@dhw.idaho.gov .