Virginia SNAP benefits no longer cover soda and some energy drinks

Virginia SNAP recipients in Richmond and statewide can no longer use their benefits to purchase soda, diet soda, zero-sugar soda, or carbonated energy drinks, WRIC reported. This policy took effect on Sunday, November 1, according to WTVR CBS 6.

The Virginia Department of Social Services explained that the change aims to encourage healthier choices and stretch SNAP dollars toward foods and beverages that support good health. This initiative is part of a pilot to test whether excluding certain sweetened and carbonated drinks leads to better health outcomes for families.

The change was implemented following a decision by Governor Glenn Youngkin’s administration in 2025. Despite the restrictions, recipients can still use SNAP benefits to buy non-carbonated energy drinks, unsweetened seltzer, lemonade, juice, tea, milk, and infant formula, WTVR CBS 6 noted.

The monthly SNAP benefit amounts remain unchanged, and customers do not need new EBT cards. This beverage restriction complements other Virginia programs promoting healthy food access, such as Virginia Fresh Match, which doubles SNAP benefits for fruits and vegetables, and the Virginia Restaurant Meals Program, helping eligible recipients buy ready-to-eat meals.

The Virginia Department of Social Services emphasized that these changes do not affect other food items eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.