TN SNAP recipients to see new benefit restrictions in 2026

Starting in 2026, Tennesseans on SNAP will no longer be able to use their benefits to buy sodas or some other high-calorie foods with sugar or similar substances as the main ingredient. On Wednesday, the United States Department of Agriculture approved Tennessee’s waiver that will exclude sodas and some prepared foods from SNAP. Tennessee applied for the waivers earlier in the year. Some have criticized the waivers by noting that there are better ways to improve nutrition.