Updated SNAP Benefits Effective October 1

For the first time in several decades, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is revising a guideline called the Thrifty Food Plan, which helps determine Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits nationwide. The change goes into effect October 1, but University of Tennessee Extension professionals advise families to begin evaluating household food budgets now.

The goal of the updated guidelines is to allow SNAP recipients to benefit from nutrient-dense foods and certain perishable commodities that have become more popular since the Thrifty Food Plan was last updated. Federal dietar...