South Carolina Enacts Major SNAP Food Restrictions; NC Rules Unchanged

South Carolina to Implement New SNAP Food Restrictions August 31; North Carolina Maintains Standard Coverage

South Carolina is preparing to roll out significant changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), marking one of the most restrictive food‑eligibility shifts in the country. Beginning August 31, 2026, SNAP recipients in South Carolina will no longer be able to purchase several categories of sugary foods and beverages. North Carolina, by contrast, will continue operating under standard federal rules with no changes to what SNAP covers.

The changes stem from the state’s Healthy Food SC demonstration project, a federally approved initiative aimed at reducing purchases of high‑sugar items using SNAP benefits.

Starting August 31, South Carolina will prohibit SNAP recipients from using their benefits to buy candy, soft drinks containing added sugar, sweetened beverages such as sweet tea, lemonade, and sugary juices, and all energy drinks.

State officials say these categories were selected because they contain high levels of added sugar and are commonly purchased with SNAP benefits. These restrictions will apply at every retailer inside South Carolina, including grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers markets, and online orders fulfilled within the state.

South Carolina’s Department of Social Services has issued detailed definitions for each restricted category. Candy refers specifically to sugar‑based sweets and does not include granola bars, protein bars, or baked goods. Sweetened beverages include any drink containing added caloric sweeteners, while energy drinks are defined as beverages marketed for energy and containing high caffeine levels. These definitions will guide retailers as they update their point‑of‑sale systems ahead of the August rollout.

Despite the new limits, most traditional grocery staples remain covered. SNAP recipients will still be able to purchase fruits and vegetables; meat, poultry, and fish; dairy products; bread and cereals; coffee and tea; drinks containing milk or plant‑based milk; natural fruit or vegetable juice containing at least 50% juice with no added sweeteners; infant formula; sports drinks; carbonated water; and medical nutrition beverages. The Healthy Food SC project does not change benefit amounts or eligibility rules only the types of foods that can be purchased.

North Carolina: No Changes to SNAP Food Coverage

North Carolina has not adopted any food‑category restrictions. The state continues to follow standard federal SNAP guidelines, meaning recipients may purchase all foods normally allowed under federal rules. SNAP benefits in North Carolina can still be used to buy fruits and vegetables; meat, poultry, and fish; dairy products; bread and cereals; coffee and tea; 100% juice; energy drinks; and sweetened beverages, candy, soda, and similar items, as the state has no waiver restricting them. No changes are scheduled for 2026.

Regional Impact

The policy shift creates a stark contrast between the Carolinas. Households living near the state line may see different purchasing options depending on where they shop. South Carolina’s restrictions are among the most extensive in the nation, while North Carolina’s program remains unchanged.