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What You Need to Know
Effective January 01, 2026, the allowable food purchases using SNAP will change. The following beverages will no longer be allowed to be purchased with SNAP:
- Soda or “Soft Drinks"
Any carbonated non-alcoholic beverage that contains water, a sweetening agent flavoring (including but not limited to sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners), and carbon dioxide gas to create carbonation and is intended for human consumption.
- “Energy Drink"
Any carbonated or non-carbonated beverages containing a stimulant such as fortified caffeine, guarana, glucuronolactone, or taurine that is intended for human consumption. They may also include herbal extracts such as ginseng, mineral salts and vitamins, or high doses of organic acids, amino acids, inositol, sugars, or other similar compounds in addition to sweeteners. Juices, natural fruit pulp, or concentrates may also be added. Energy drinks are specifically formulated to enhance energy, alertness, or physical performance. - “Soft Drinks" and “Energy Drinks" are available in various flavors, formulations, and packaging. However, beverages marketed primarily as sports drinks to increase hydration, like Gatorade or medically necessary nutritional products, are not included.
- “Soft Drinks" and “Energy Drinks" do not include beverages that contain milk or milk products; soy, rice, or similar milk substitutes; mineral water sold in containers; or specialty foods that are liquids or that are to be added to a liquid and that are intended to be a substitute in the diet for more commonly used food items. This can include, but is not limited to, infant formula or meal replacement shakes.
Nebraska SNAP-authorized retailers will update their Point of Sale (POS) systems to exclude the purchases of “Soft Drinks" and “Energy Drinks" using SNAP benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
SNAP Participant FAQ - coming soon
SNAP Nutrition Education and SNAP Outreach
UNL's SNAP-Ed Website
Healthy Alternatives
Alternative healthy options to soda and energy drinks.
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| Sparkling Water | - Provides hydration without added sugars
- Can be flavored naturally with fruits and herbs
- Low in calories
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| Fruit-Infused Water | - Adding fruits, vegetables, or herbs to water can provide the benefits of added nutrients
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| Green Tea* | - Supports bone health, improving longevity, and lowering cholesterol
- Contains caffeine
- Helps burn fat and increase energy expenditure
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| Black Tea* | - Promotes heart health, reducing risk of stroke, and decreasing the risk of certain cancers
- Rich in antioxidants
- Contains caffeine
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| Coffee* | - Source of strong antioxidants
- Contains caffeine
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| Fruit Juices (100% fruit juice) | - Source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients
- Support heart health and reduce fatigue
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| Vegetable Juices (100% vegetable juice) | - Source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients
- Support heart health and reduce fatigue
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| Coconut Water | - Has more potassium than sports drinks and is a good source of minerals, electrolytes, and antioxidants
- Can boost energy and hydration levels
- Low in calories
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| Matcha* | - Powdered green tea
- Offers sustained energy and focus
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| Kombucha* | - Fermented black tea drink
- Potential source of probiotics
- Contains caffeine
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| Smoothies | - Fruits or berries combined with coconut water, almond milk, or coconut milk (unsweetened)
- Provides natural energy
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| Milk | - Contains calcium and phosphorous to promote healthy teeth
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*Note that Sodas, Soft Drinks and Energy Drinks containing these ingredients may not be purchased with SNAP.
Community Resources
Link to a list of Nebraska-authorized retailers coming soon
Authorized Retailer Information
Authorized Retailers FAQ - Authorized Retailers FAQ.pdf
Resources and Materials- the following will be posted soon.
- Flyer
- Fact Sheets
- Signage
- Training Documents
Nutritional Information - coming soon
Survey and Feedback - coming soon
FNS Retailer Resource Center - coming soon
Contact Information