Trump’s MAHA Bans Junk Food
A growing number of states are moving to restrict junk food purchases under the federal food assistance program, sparking a renewed debate in Washington over nutrition, public health, and responsible use of taxpayer dollars.
Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican and medical doctor, said the changes reflect a broader shift in health policy—one that looks beyond calorie counts and focuses more closely on highly processed foods. Marshall discussed the issue Thursday during an appearance on Rob Schmitt Tonight.
Several states, including Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, and West Virginia, have begun limiting the use of benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program for items such as soda, candy, and other heavily processed products. According to federal officials, at least 18 states are now seeking waivers to adopt similar policies.
The effort has received encouragement from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, who have both called for reforms aimed at improving nutrition outcomes.
Marshall stressed that the changes are intended as a public health measure, not a penalty for low-income families.
“People are still free to buy whatever food they want with their own money,” Marshall said. “But when taxpayer dollars are involved, we should be using them to support better health, not contribute to long-term medical problems.”
He cited federal data showing that roughly 70 percent of Americans suffer from at least one chronic condition, with obesity and Type 2 diabetes among the most common. Those conditions, he noted, drive healthcare costs and reduce quality of life, particularly among older Americans.
Marshall praised state leaders who have embraced the reforms, highlighting Indiana Governor Mike Braun for advancing nutrition-focused policies. He said the state-level efforts demonstrate how governors can lead on health issues without expanding bureaucracy.
The senator also pointed to recent legislative action in Congress as evidence of momentum. One measure restores whole milk to school lunch programs, reversing years of federal restrictions. Marshall said the bill is expected to be signed by President Donald Trump, calling it a step toward more practical nutrition standards.
According to Marshall, the SNAP restrictions align with the broader “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, which prioritizes food quality, ingredient transparency, and updated dietary guidelines.
“We have to stop looking only at calories,” Marshall said. “The quality of the food matters just as much.”
He added that confusion around nutrition remains widespread, in part because of inconsistent labeling and unclear definitions of what qualifies as ultra-processed food.
Marshall said the Food and Drug Administration has a responsibility to evaluate artificial dyes, additives, and other ingredients so consumers can make informed choices.
Education, he said, will be key to making the reforms successful.
“If food comes from nature and hasn’t been heavily altered, that’s usually a good place to start,” Marshall said. “If it’s something your grandmother could grow in her garden, it’s probably a healthy option.”
