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Kansas will soon limit what people can buy with SNAP food benefits. Governor Laura Kelly announced that the United States Department of Agriculture has approved the state’s request to restrict purchases of candy and soda with SNAP dollars.

Starting Feb. 15, 2027, SNAP benefits in Kansas cannot be used to buy candy or soft drinks. State officials say the change is meant to encourage healthier food choices. Kansas now joins 21 other states with similar restrictions.

Under the rule, candy includes sweet foods made mostly of sugar or sweeteners combined with ingredients like chocolate, fruit, or nuts, and that do not contain flour or require refrigeration. Soft drinks include nonalcoholic beverages with natural or artificial sweeteners. Drinks that contain milk, milk substitutes, or more than 50% fruit or vegetable juice are not included.

The start date was recommended by the USDA to give retailers time to prepare. The Kansas Department for Children and Families is working on plans to inform SNAP recipients and retailers before the rule takes effect.