The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has proposed changes to how retailers must meet the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) stocking standards in order to qualify to participate in the program.

If finalized, the proposal would put the 2014 Farm Bill’s higher breadth-of-stock requirements for SNAP retailers into effect, moving from three to seven distinct varieties of food in each of the four staple food categories (protein, grains, vegetables/fruits and dairy). The agency’s proposed rule creates an updated framework for what counts as a “distinct variety” and which items are considered “accessory foods.”

NACS has long advocated for a “variety” rulemaking that increases nutritious options for SNAP customers, while being workable and common sense for small-format retailers, like convenience stores, to implement. However, there are some aspects of the proposed rule that may be challenging for small format SNAP retailers to implement in its current form.

For example, the proposal limits retailers from counting certain products as separate food varieties in the grains and dairy categories, making it difficult for small format stores to comply. NACS plans to advocate for changes that will allow more options for retailers and consumers.

“The convenience industry shares USDA’s commitment to improving nutritious food access,” said Margaret Mannion, NACS director of government relations. “NACS plans to file comments on the proposal and work with FNS to ensure the final rule provides flexibility for the program’s retail partners while expanding healthy choices for SNAP customers. Our goal is to ensure that any final rule on variety supports retailer participation rather than creating barriers that could drive responsible convenience retailers out of the program.”

The public comment period on the proposal opens September 25 and closes November 24, 2025.