Healthy SNAP Act of 2025This bill amends the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to redefine the foods eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.Under the bill, 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.In addition, prepared meals purchased with SNAP benefits must have nutritional values consistent with standards developed by USDA for the list of food and food products.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.
If enacted, SB561 would significantly impact SNAP participants by ensuring that only foods deemed nutritionally beneficial are made available for purchase with SNAP benefits. This legislative change could lead to a healthier, more balanced diet among recipients, potentially reducing health issues related to poor nutrition. Moreover, the bill mandates a regular review of the designated foods—at least every five years—thereby ensuring the program remains responsive to evolving nutritional science and public health guidelines. This approach aims to align SNAP offerings with current dietary needs and cultural eating patterns.
SB561, titled the 'Healthy SNAP Act of 2025', seeks to amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to enhance the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The bill proposes that the Secretary of Agriculture shall designate specific food and food products to be included in SNAP, emphasizing the inclusion of nutrition-rich items that address dietary deficiencies in the U.S. population. A core component of the bill is its focus on promoting public health by adjusting the definition of food under the program, explicitly excluding items like soft drinks, candy, and other high-sugar, high-fat products.
While the bill primarily aims to improve public health, it may also attract contention. Critics could argue that the designation process might limit access to popular food items, impinging on personal choice for beneficiaries. Additionally, there may be concerns over the implementation of these changes, particularly regarding the availability of culturally appropriate food options. Balancing nutritional standards with adequately representing diverse dietary preferences will be vital for the successful reception of SB561.