Some changes in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits took affect on Feb. 15, 2026. As part of the Healthy Foods Waiver, select food items will no longer be eligible for purchase with the benefits.
In 2024, an estimated total of 686,800 Oklahoman’s were receiving SNAP benefits. That equals 16.8 to 17 percent of the state’s population. Two-thirds of the recipients are families with children and approximately one-third is older adults. Eighty six percent of the participants have an income that is below the poverty level. Participants on average receive approximately $180 a month per person. Oklahoma ranks sixth highest in the nation for food insecurities.
The SNAP Healthy Foods Waiver is a federally approved project to support healthier food choice and improve nutrition outcomes for Oklahoma families. The waiver does not change who is eligible for the benefits or how the benefits are calculated.
SNAP customers do not need to do anything. They will continue to receive their benefits as usual and the amount of benefits will not change. It only affects which food items can be purchased. Most foods are still be available including fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy, grains, eggs, plant-based proteins, 100 percent juice, pain water and coffee or tea prepared at home. Items SNAP will no longer cover are chocolate bars, hard candies, gummies, caramels, taffy licorice, mints, chewing gum, carbonated sodas, energy drinks, sweetened tea, sweetened lemonade, and flavored sweetened water. For details on the changes you may visit the Oklahoma Human Services Healthy Food Waiver web page.snap program