Healthy Food SC Delayed by USDA | Columbia News

South Carolina’s bold plan to restrict SNAP benefits—banning candy, sugary sodas, and energy drinks—is on hold after the USDA ordered a delay until November, citing ongoing legal reviews from similar programs in Colorado and Iowa. Originally set to launch in August, the Healthy Food SC initiative, approved by the USDA in late 2025 under Governor McMaster, now faces federal scrutiny as nearly half a million South Carolinians rely on SNAP benefits—spending nearly $90 million monthly. With no opt-out for retailers or recipients, the program’s fate hinges on Washington’s final approval. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/c758394137bc4277