Tennessee will prohibit the use of SNAP benefits to buy sodas and other high-calorie foods made primarily with sugar beginning in 2026, following federal approval of the state’s request for new restrictions.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Tennessee’s waiver on Wednesday, allowing the state to bar SNAP purchases of items where the main ingredient is sugar, corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, or similar sweeteners.

The change also applies to drinks in which the first two ingredients are carbonated water and a sugar-based sweetener.

State officials said the policy will still allow SNAP recipients to buy hot prepared chicken while restricting purchases of sodas and certain prepared foods.

The waiver reads:

Dear Governor Lee:

The Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) is

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