Once again, the discourse around SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits has ignited controversy, but this time, it comes from a surprising source. Richard Melville Hall, better known as Moby—a six-time Grammy nominee and self-proclaimed advocate for veganism—has taken it upon himself to dictate what foods those relying on SNAP should or shouldn’t purchase.
In a recent op-ed for the Wall Street Journal, Moby expressed disdain for items like “candy, soda, cheese products, energy drinks, processed meats, and lots of other items.” Let’s pause here. Cheese? Despite his earnest intentions, cheese is a source of essential nutrients, and contrary to Moby’s claims, it’s not the villain he makes it out to be. The French, for example, enjoy their cheese without rampant health crises.
This critique reeks of privilege. It’s yet another instance of a wealthy individual trying to impose their dietary choices on low-income families, many of whom are children, elderly, or individuals with disabilities. Moby, you don’t have the authority to dictate what treats families should enjoy. Yes, candy can be part of the SNAP program. Children deserve the occasional indulgence—a candy bar during grocery runs, a birthday cake, or even Easter chocolates. Just because my family doesn’t rely on SNAP doesn’t mean we’re more deserving than those who do.
Now, let’s talk about soda. Critics love to vilify individuals seen purchasing soda with SNAP benefits, but this is often exaggerated. If it does happen, it’s easy to misinterpret a moment as a broader narrative about poverty. That soda may be the only way someone finds the energy to get through a demanding job. We need to step back and understand that we don’t know each person’s story, and thus, we cannot judge their choices.
Moby’s vague reference to “processed meats” raises further questions. While he advocates for beans as a protein source, he doesn’t specify which meats he deems acceptable. Does this mean all meats are off-limits? In reality, easy-to-cook protein sources like hamburger and hotdogs are often essential for families on tight budgets. Many SNAP recipients work demanding jobs that leave them exhausted, and convenience often trumps elaborate meal prep.
My household, for instance, opts for quick meals because my partner teaches high school and comes home utterly exhausted. Mac and cheese, frozen chicken nuggets, and hotdogs are staples. My mother, who was also a teacher, made similar choices—often too tired to prepare complex meals after a long day. We cannot expect those working tirelessly to do more than we are willing to do ourselves.
Moby pushes for “beans, vegetables, fruit, and whole grains,” but anyone who shops for groceries understands the financial burden of fresh produce versus frozen options. Whole grains often cost more than white bread, and preparing cheap beans requires time—something many SNAP recipients simply don’t have. This isn’t about pride, as he suggests. It’s about priorities and managing limited resources.
Food deserts present another challenge, where access to fresh produce is severely limited. In some neighborhoods, the only protein available comes at inflated prices from convenience stores.
According to SNAP to Health, the average SNAP recipient received about $126 per month in 2015, which hardly covers the monthly grocery needs of a family. Additionally, fraud in the SNAP system is minimal, costing taxpayers a mere $36 annually for families earning around $50,000. That’s a small investment to help ensure children are fed and vulnerable adults don’t have to rely on cat food.
Ultimately, Moby, your concerns about health care costs and the need to guide the less fortunate are misguided. You don’t get to dictate what others eat or drink. That can of soda might be a small comfort in an otherwise tough day. Would you take away a candy bar from a child who has worked hard in school? The meals you criticize may represent a mother’s love and a desperate attempt to provide for her family amidst overwhelming demands.
We should not impose our dietary preferences on those who are struggling. Empathy is essential; it is not our place to dictate the food choices of others.
In conclusion, the conversation around SNAP benefits should focus on understanding and support, not judgment and restriction. Moby’s perspective lacks the empathy required to appreciate the challenges faced by those utilizing these benefits.
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