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Missouri has requested a federal waiver to restrict SNAP benefits from being used on items like soft drinks and candy.

Critics argue the restrictions could create confusion for shoppers and retailers, and increase stigma for benefit recipients.

The waiver also aims to incentivize the purchase of healthy, Missouri-produced foods, such as by expanding the Double Up Food Bucks program.

MOBERLY — Programs to help lower-income Missourians stretch their food benefits allow many families to put fresh produce on their tables, said Kara Bunten, director of the Randolph County Farmers Market, on Thursday, Oct. 2, the last market of the year.

Families rely on these programs “to feed their family fresh fruits and vegetables at a reduced rate, so they’re not spending all the mo

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