Soda or Rotisserie Chicken? An Evaluation of the Food Stamps Program, Poster 3

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is the largest domestic food assistance program. This program was established to improve both food security and nutrition among our most... [ view full abstract ]

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps, is the largest domestic food assistance program. This program was established to improve both food security and nutrition among our most vulnerable populations. Approximately 46 million low-income people (14% of the population) rely on SNAP annually. Despite the fact that participation in SNAP is increasing every year, opponents of the program have proposed numerous budget cuts, and have suggested that participants take advantage of the system and make poor food choices. For this project, I reviewed annual reports and food behavior statistics to assess the strengths and weaknesses of SNAP. I found that many assumptions made about SNAP participants are unwarranted. In particular, the belief that SNAP participants choose less healthy food options compared with regular shoppers is not supported by the research. I will discuss concerns around stereotyping SNAP participants as well as direct policy recommendations, such as prohibiting the use of SNAP benefits to purchase sugar sweetened beverages like soda, while allowing participants to purchase hot prepared foods like rotisserie chicken.