Submitted by Office of Gov. Mike Braun
Governor Mike Braun announced on Dec. 31 the launch of Smart SNAP, which began New Year’s Day.
It prohibits the use of SNAP benefits for sugary drinks and candy. This policy, a cornerstone of Gov. Braun’s Make Indiana Healthy Again plan, reflects Indiana’s commitment to improving nutrition and reversing troubling health trends statewide.
Under Gov. Braun’s leadership, Indiana is taking decisive action to set a standard for healthy eating and provide a model for other states.
“This is a commonsense change that will help Hoosiers live healthier lives,” Gov. Braun said. “By working hand-in-hand with retailers, community organizations, and food banks, we’re ensuring this transition is smooth and effective. Indiana is proving that practical, collaborative solutions can make a real difference – and we hope other states will follow our lead.”
This policy change was first announced in April 2025 alongside U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
To ensure a seamless rollout, the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) has implemented a comprehensive strategy:
- Retailer Engagement: Three meetings completed, eight more scheduled in January for compliance and training.
- Smart SNAP Retailer Resources: FAQs, posters, labels, and compliance checklists available online, with regular updates.
- Community Partnerships: Food banks and local organizations amplifying awareness statewide.
- Direct Outreach: Posters in all Division of Family Resources offices to inform SNAP recipients.
Indiana was among the first states to secure a USDA waiver for this change, and other states are already exploring similar measures. Smart SNAP underscores Gov. Braun’s vision for healthier communities and practical leadership that delivers results.
For more information and resources, visit snap.in.gov.
So are we able to buy cakes ? Granulated sugar? Honey? What about zero sugar soda?? Or is that forbidden too because it’s considered a luxury item to the red? The whole thing sounds good … in your eyes . Maybe . But it is really not convincing its control and stereotypes period actually ridiculous but whatever makes you feel better .
I am sure it prohibits the use of SNAP benefits for all manufactured sugary products available in snap approved stores. I am also sure all those manufacturers will back him in his decision.
We found out last Friday that Graham crackers are considered candy and not covered by SNAP. Let’s raid Braun’s and the others like him to confiscate all of their ‘contraband’ food.
Many Seniors worked all their lives and paid into all these programs through Taxes. I worked for over 50 years full-time before retiring. Of course, Now they’re bullying us right along with everyone who “used” the system, dishonestly! This is about appeasing disgruntled taxpayers, today. I was one of those taxpayers and I say It’s not helping anyone to eat healthier, with today’s outrageous pricing of “all” food and the boat-loading unhealthy additives, in most everything out there for human consumption! This is about Controlling all of us!