USDA Clarifies SNAP Policy: Food for the Poor Must Be Returned, Preferably in Its Original Packaging

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Days after authorizing states to release full November SNAP benefits, the U.S. Department of Agriculture abruptly reversed course Saturday, issuing new guidance reminding America’s poorest citizens that hunger is, in fact, still the law of the land.

“To the extent food was distributed, this was unauthorized,” wrote Deputy Undersecretary Patrick Penn in a memo. “States must immediately undo any steps taken to feed people. Those who have already received meals are advised to return them, preferably in their original packaging.”

The memo reversed guidance issued just a day earlier, when the USDA told states to go ahead with full November SNAP payments. Hours later, the Supreme Court blocked that order and sent the case back to a lower court, leaving the agency to announce that feeding people was now “unauthorized.”

Governors across the country expressed confusion, with Massachusetts officials confirming that “the food has already been consumed” and Wisconsin’s Tony Evers issuing a one-word response: “No.”

Asked how states should return the already-distributed benefits, USDA officials said guidance would be provided “eventually—as soon as we figure out what’s going on here.”