A federal court decision this week has blocked the U.S. Department of Agriculture from restricting certain foods, including sugary snacks, from being purchased with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. The ruling, issued Monday, found that the USDA exceeded its authority when it attempted to bar specific 'junk food' items from the program.
The case was closely watched by food policy advocates and retailers across New York City. Bodegas and supermarkets in neighborhoods from the South Bronx to East New York rely on SNAP sales, with chips, sodas, and candy among the frequent purchases. Some store managers had prepared for possible changes to their inventory lists this summer. That adjustment is now on hold.
On Tuesday morning, shoppers at a Key Food in Harlem said the decision provided some relief. “People want to choose for themselves,” said cashier Maria Torres. “We see a lot of families buying snacks for the park or beach this time of year.”
The USDA had argued that limiting certain foods could encourage healthier eating, but the court found that Congress did not give the agency authority to make those exclusions. Legal observers noted that any further restrictions would require new legislation.
The ruling comes as summer food assistance demand remains high, particularly with school out and families seeking affordable options. For now, SNAP recipients will continue to have broad discretion over what they buy with their benefits.