Adherence

Restricting the purchase of sugar-sweetened beverages (sodas, fruit punch, lemonade) and low-nutritional-value foods (candy) via SNAP benefits, potentially paired with financial incentives for healthy foods, is a policy strategy supported by stakeholders to improve dietary quality and prevent obesity among low-income beneficiaries.

For policymakers and program administrators, aligning SNAP eligibility with public health goals involves restricting the purchase of sugar-sweetened beverages and candy while providing financial incentives (like vouchers or bonus dollars) for fruits and vegetables. This approach addresses the high cost of healthy foods and the prevalence of unhealthy marketing in low-income communities, with strong support from stakeholders and SNAP participants themselves when incentives are included.