A new rule aimed at increasing healthy foods at SNAP stores may make it harder for retailers to accept the benefits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced that beginning in November, SNAP retailers must carry at least seven types of food in each staple category.
This change could lead to a reduction in access to healthy food options for some people on SNAP, especially in lower-income areas and rural areas. Experts estimate that 5,000 retailers will lose their SNAP eligibility under the new requirements.
Retailers face the risk of losing money on perishable items that may expire before they can be sold. The new requirements may also lead to increased pressure on businesses that are already fragile, damaging communities that rely on sales tax revenue.
