On May 8, 2026 we published a final rule that updates retailer stocking standards in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This rule ensures that retailers carry a variety of foods that promote the health of SNAP participants. The rule also simplifies how foods are categorized, making the requirements easier for retailers to implement and FNS to oversee, strengthening the integrity of SNAP at all levels. As of Nov. 4, 2026, all SNAP-authorized retailers will be required to comply with the updated stocking standards described below.
Staple Food Varieties
All retailers other than specialty stores (e.g. butchers, farm stands) must offer at least seven varieties in each staple food category – dairy, vegetables or fruits, grains, and protein. A variety is a food that is distinct from another food in the same staple food category. For example, apples and oranges are two varieties in the vegetables or fruits staple foods category, and plain, fresh chicken and dry beans are two varieties in the protein staple foods category. The rule requires retailers to offer a perishable variety in at least three of the four staple food categories. It also distinguishes certain foods as separate varieties within the same staple food category in three of the four categories.
Accessory Food Updates
The rule changes the classification of butter, jerky, cheese dip, snack bars, and fruit spreads. These items no longer qualify as staple foods. This means they cannot count as one of the foods a retailer can stock to qualify for SNAP authorization, but they are still eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Please note, retailers must also follow any applicable policies regarding food restrictions in effect for each state. More information on food restriction waivers is available.
Questions and Answers
- What happens if my store can’t meet the new requirements?
If your store does not meet the new requirements, it will be withdrawn from participating in SNAP, and you will no longer be able to accept SNAP benefits.
- If I get withdrawn because I don’t meet the new requirements, when can I apply again?
You can reapply six months after the date your store was withdrawn.
- If my application to accept SNAP benefits at my store is denied because I don’t meet the new requirements, when can my store apply again?
You can reapply six months after the date your store was denied.
- What are some ways the rule increases the varieties of foods that can fulfill the dairy staple food category?
The new rule increase varieties in the dairy staple food category by separating shelf stable milk and refrigerated milk into two distinct varieties as well as flavored milk and plain milk. It also adds cream as its own variety and distinguishes shredded, grated or crumbled cheese as a separate variety from all other cheese.
For example, a retailer could meet the new stocking standards in dairy by offering the following options: whole milk, buttermilk, yogurt, sour cream, cottage cheese, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and soy milk. Under this rule, infant formula also counts as a variety in the dairy staple food category.
- What are some ways the rule increases the varieties of foods that can fulfill the protein staple food category?
The new rule increases varieties in the protein staple food variety by separating meat from different kinds of animals into distinct varieties and distinguishing plain meat, seasoned meat, and shelf-stable meat as separate varieties. It also incorporates new plant-based protein varieties like nuts and beans.
For example, a retailer could meet the new stocking standards in protein by offering the following options: chicken breast, ground beef, frozen salmon filets, canned tuna, eggs, peanut butter, and lentils.
- What are some ways the rule increases the varieties of foods that can fulfill the grains staple food category?
The new rule makes whole-wheat bread and non-whole wheat bread distinct varieties as well as whole-wheat pasta and non-whole wheat pasta. Flours and grains are also separate varieties in each category by grain type. For example, wheat flour and bulgur wheat are now separate varieties.
For example, a retailer could meet the new stocking standards in grains by offering the following options: sourdough bread, corn tortillas, whole grain spaghetti, quick-cook oats, brown rice, pearled barley, and white flour. Under this rule, infant cereal also counts as a variety in the grains staple food category.
- What changes does this rule make to accessory foods?
The new rule changes the classification of butter, jerky, cheese dip, snack bars, and fruit spreads. These items no longer qualify as staple foods for retailer authorization, but they are still eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Please note, some states restrict what foods and beverages customers can use SNAP benefits to buy. For more information, please visit the SNAP Food Restriction Waiver webpage.
- Will you provide more information about the requirements under the new rule?
Yes. We will update our website with guidance for retailers soon. We will also send notices to the email addresses on file for retailers that are likely to be impacted by the change.
- Does the rule change what customers can purchase with SNAP benefits?
No. The rule only changes what stores need to stock to be a SNAP authorized retailer. It does not change what is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Please note, some states do restrict what food customers can use SNAP benefits to buy. For more information about those food restrictions, please visit the SNAP Food Restriction Waiver page.