H.R. 479 — Healthy SNAP Act of 2025

This section revises the definition of "food" eligible for purchase with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits under section 3(k)(1) of the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to include only foods and food products designated by the Secretary of Agriculture under new section 4(d), while excluding alcoholic beverages, tobacco, soft drinks, candy, ice cream, and prepared desserts such as cakes, pies, and cookies (in addition to previously excluded hot foods and hot food products ready for immediate consumption). Section 4(d), as added, requires the Secretary to designate such foods by regulation not later than 180 days after enactment, considering items that address nutrient deficiencies in U.S. diets, promote SNAP participants' health based on nutrition science and cultural eating patterns, and have appropriate fat, sugar, and salt content; to review and amend the list at least every five years; to ensure prepared meals meet specified nutritional standards; and to allow states, with Secretary approval, to substitute nutritionally equivalent foods for cultural cuisines. (Thus, SNAP restricts benefits to healthier, designated foods, potentially excluding many currently eligible items.)