A new approach to SNAP could encourage healthy eating

New research suggests that adding new benefits and disincentives to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program could encourage healthier eating. SNAP provides $70 billion each year to help low-income individuals buy food. Past studies have shown that adding a subsidy for fruits, veggies, and other foods can incentivize healthy choices, and, in the long run, cut down on health problems and medical costs. The new study that finds adding financial penalties for buying junk food would produce an even bigger impact. The authors say their findings point to the need to test new tactics in state pilot programs.