A new Texas law has changed how nearly 900,000 people in the Houston area shop for groceries, but weeks after taking effect, there are still major questions about whether it’s working.
The policy, often called the “SNAP sugar ban,” went into effect April 1. It limits what people on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can buy; candy and sugary drinks containing five or more grams added sugars, and artificial sweeteners are banned.
But despite the name, it’s not a full sugar ban. SNAP recipients can still use their benefits to pay for chips and cookies. If they want soda, sweet tea or anything with artificial sweeteners, they’d have to pay for them out of pocket.
The change comes from Senate Bill 379, passed by Texas lawmakers in 2025.
Supporters say the goal is to encourage healthier eating habits and reduce taxpayer-funded healthcare costs tied to diet-related illness.
For many families, SNAP benefits are already limited. According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the average SNAP recipient in Texas receives $188 per month.
Houston-area resident Lisa McWashington told KPRC 2 she receives about $285 a month for her child and $135 for herself.
For families living paycheck to paycheck, even small changes in what benefits cover can have a real impact.
KPRC 2 called or emailed representatives from major grocery chains — including H-E-B, Kroger, Whole Foods Market, Food Town, and La Michoacana — to ask how the change is affecting shoppers. None agreed to an on-camera interview.
At District Market Green Grocer, an independent grocery store in Houston, the approach is straightforward: clearly show customers what qualifies for SNAP and what does not.
Robert Thomas, the store’s owner, said many customers are asking what they can still buy and adjusting their shopping habits in response.
“A good 10 percent of my monthly revenue comes from SNAP. So what we tell customers is, adjust the way you shop. A lot of times we shop and think you have to fill up the house with food. No, you don’t. Just get what you need for that time,” said Thomas.
It’s unclear whether the policy is working. Because the law only took effect in April, there is currently no data showing improved health outcomes, and no clear evidence that people are buying fewer sugary items.
Texas Health and Human Services told KPRC2 it’s asking people on SNAP to provide feedback on the impact of the restrictions and whether their shopping and eating habits have changed. They’re asking people to fill out this confidential survey.
If you’re struggling to afford food, the Houston Food Bank says help is available. Its Community Assistance Program connects people with food resources and benefit support across the Houston area.