Many elements of capitalism are already removed from the system. The recipients don’t earn what they get. They have no real cares about how they spend the “free” benefits. In a government program my concern is how much is spent, wasted and used fraudulently. I want the recipients to get only no-name goods. I don’t care if private stores “sell” it. But those on the government teat should not get name brand stuff, nor luxury items like lobster, etc. when many of those who pay the taxes don’t buy that kind of items.
I don't disagree. But to get that changed you'll have to do something about the food industry lobbyists who block any changes in policy.
I do not agree with those who spout off saying ban all prepared food. Many of these people do not have the skills to cook from scratch (I certainly wouldn't) and nationwide training is not feasible. That would be a multi-billion-dollar program in itself. Also, a fraction of recipients do have genuine medical or disability limitations that make this unrealistic.
Aw, another good little comrade who wants to dictate what others may or may not eat. Personally, I haven’t seen too many at the grocery store using food stamps who buy lobster or even steak. Instead, I’ve seen young mothers with children pulling on her with a cart full of cereal, hamburger, milk, bread, etc. and yes, even a snack or two for the kids. So what? Get your darned noses out of other people’s grocery carts and learn the goosestep.