Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether Alani Nu qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Alani Nu with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Alani Nu with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because Alani Nu is classified as a supplement, which is not covered under SNAP guidelines. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items, and supplements typically fall outside this category. Therefore, items like Alani Nu, which are labeled as dietary supplements, do not qualify for purchase with EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Alani Nu Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not covered by SNAP. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like Alani Nu that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food products are not eligible for purchase.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption, like deli meals, are not covered by SNAP.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with an EBT card, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With our app, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alani Nu eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state?
No, Alani Nu is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. This is because it is classified as a dietary supplement, which is not covered under SNAP guidelines.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy Alani Nu with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy Alani Nu with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Are baskets containing Alani Nu eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing Alani Nu are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Since Alani Nu is classified as a dietary supplement, it cannot be included in a SNAP-eligible transaction.
Why is Alani Nu not covered under SNAP benefits?
Alani Nu is not covered under SNAP benefits because it is labeled as a dietary supplement. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items, and supplements typically fall outside this category.
