The U.S. Department of Agriculture wants people who use food stamps to have more healthy options on store shelves.

The department this week unveiled new rules that would require retailers to offer at least seven varieties of each major food group to qualify to accept SNAP payments.

Current rules only require three varieties in each food group, including dairy, breads and cereals, meat and fish, and fruits and vegetables.

The rules would also require that stores keep those items in stock so they don't run out.

Stricter requirements could mean fewer stores would qualify to accept SNAP.

Convenience stores argue that fewer SNAP stores could take healthy options away from some consumers.

The department is considering a waiver for special cases.

Read More:

• USDA Rules Would Increase Food Stamp Access To Healthy Foods (Associated Press)
• The USDA Wants to Make Healthier Options Available to Food Stamp Users (Fortune)