Many people understand the vital importance of social service programs like food stamps, but quite a few of those people also want to know how their tax dollars are being spent by these programs.

Last year alone more than $1 trillion was spent on welfare programs in the United States, with food stamps making up about $70 billion of that total. Some recent statistics on how those receiving assistance spend their allotted food stamps has raised the ire of more than a few people.

According to a study conducted by the Food and Nutrition service, sodas account for the bulk of food stamp purchases at one retail chain’s outlets. This is somewhat ironic when the actual name of the food stamp program is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. Sodas don’t possess much nutritional value.

The same study shows that those who do not receive food stamps most often purchase milk.

The study was commissioned by the federal government and carried out by an independent data analysis company. The company analyzed data provided by one retailer for their entire chain of stores.

While not conclusive, the data does have some individuals renewing their appeals for more purchase restrictions where food stamp benefits are concerned.

Currently, it is not permitted to spend food stamps on tobacco or alcohol as well as certain other items such as fast food. There are taxpayers that would like to see sodas added to this list.