SCDSS pilot program to encourage healthier habits among SNAP participants
South Carolina Public Radio |
By
SC Public Radio Staff
Published August 17, 2026 at 4:19 PM EDT
Allison Dinner/AP
/
FR171780 AP
The South Carolina Department of Social Services will launch Healthy Food SC at the end of August restricting certain food and drink purchases by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients
The state’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients will no longer be able to purchase items like candy, energy drinks, sodas and other sweetened beverages using SNAP benefits under a new pilot program that’s set to launch on August 31
Healthy Food SC is a two-year initiative by the South Carolina Department of Social Services (SCDSS) to encourage healthier eating by limiting the purchase of food and drinks that lack nutritional value. Diet and zero sugar soft drinks will not be included as part of the new restrictions
SCDSS says all SNAP approved retailers will participate in the program. It’s also mandatory for all participating households in the state
More than 235,000 households representing nearly 482,000 South Carolinians currently utilize SNAP benefits. That amounts to a cost of more than $89.3 million
