The Journal.
The Fight to Kick Soda Out of Food Stamps
Mar 7, 2025
Laura Cooper, a WSJ reporter covering the beverage industry, dives into the ongoing battle to limit soda purchases in food stamp programs. She discusses Arkansas’ pioneering plan, which aims to tackle obesity by banning sugary drinks from SNAP. Beverage giants like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are feeling the heat and are adjusting their strategies accordingly. The conversation raises important questions about public health, consumer choices, and the political maneuvers at play. Tune in to learn about the potential impact on health and the industry.
18:01
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders' proposal to restrict SNAP benefits for sugary drinks aims to improve public health amidst rising obesity rates.
- The push against soda purchases with food stamps faces opposition from beverage companies, illustrating the tension between public health initiatives and consumer choice.
Deep dives
Proposed Restrictions on SNAP Benefits
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders of Arkansas has proposed restrictions on using SNAP benefits to purchase sugary beverages, snacks, and desserts, citing high rates of diabetes and obesity in the state. She argues that allowing the purchase of these items with taxpayer-funded benefits contributes to poor health outcomes and has pointed to studies suggesting significant potential public health improvements. Specifically, a recent study indicated that limiting sugary drinks in SNAP could prevent obesity in over 141,000 children and type 2 diabetes in nearly 250,000 adults. This proposal marks a renewed effort in Arkansas, as past attempts in other states to restrict sugary drink purchases through SNAP have consistently failed.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
