The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services has announced changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that will impact what items are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
According to IHHS, the changes are designed to promote healthier eating habits among Iowans receiving SNAP benefits.
Under the new rules SNAP purchases are based on the state’s non-taxable food items list, which includes fish products, egg products, snack foods, and trail mix.
Other items included on the list are some prepared foods, seeds for food-producing plants, and food-producing plants. Seeds and plants purchased from commercial growers or truck gardeners are exempt from tax.
Snack foods that are generally exempt from tax include corn chips, pretzels, and potato chips.
Products containing cocoa, cereal, and sugar are exempt from tax unless they are classified as candy.
Following the changes, certain items will no longer be eligible for SNAP purchases, including taxable food items such as soda, candy, and in-store prepared food.
The changes will go into effect January 1st, 2026.
