Colorado Bans Sugary Drinks From SNAP Benefits

Changes are coming to Colorado next year by way of the United States Department of Agriculture. According to KDVR, the new exclusion on certain government benefits will take place in 2026.

Colorado Requests USDA Waiver to Ban Sugary Drinks

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In May 2025, the state of Colorado submitted a waiver request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to exempt certain drinks from being purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funds, also known as SNAP benefits, by use of an EBT card.

READ MORE: Denver Water’s Viral Video Urges Residents to Conserve

This new mandate will exclude the purchase of drinks containing at least five grams of sweetener per 12 fluid ounces. Drinks such as soda and energy drinks will no longer be able to be purchased with funds from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

Health Goals Drive the New SNAP Restrictions

Today's waiver is a big step towards improving the health of Coloradans and reducing obesity rates, diabetes, and tooth decay. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is designed to support the nutritional needs of those struggling to put food on the table, and this waiver will help ensure that more Coloradans participating in SNAP have access to healthy foods.

Colorado's governor, Jared Polis, announced on Monday.

READ MORE: New 2025 Colorado Laws Focus on Health and Nutrition

Colorado isn't the only state on the list as part of the exclusions on what type of drinks can be purchased on SNAP benefits. Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, and West Virginia are also on the list of states that have followed suit in excluding sugary drinks from being bought with SNAP benefits.

Milk-Based Beverages and Baby Formula Still Covered

The new waiver in Colorado will not limit the purchase of any milk-based drinks or baby formula on SNAP benefits.