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. Many recipients may wonder whether Celsius, a popular energy drink, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Celsius with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Celsius with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because energy drinks like Celsius are classified as supplements, which are not eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. SNAP benefits are intended for food items that provide nutritional value, and supplements, including energy drinks, do not meet this criterion. Therefore, they are excluded from the list of approved items.
How to Check If Celsius 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, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: 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 Celsius that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, including vitamins and dietary supplements, are not eligible for purchase.
Hot, Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale or meant for immediate consumption, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food products cannot be bought with SNAP benefits.
What Happens If You Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with an EBT Card?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with your 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. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, you can earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores such as Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Celsius Ever Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
No, Celsius is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This is because it is classified as a supplement, which is not covered under SNAP guidelines. Only items with a "Nutrition Facts" label are eligible, and Celsius carries a "Supplement Facts" label.
Will My EBT Benefits Be Halted If I Try to Buy Celsius?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy Celsius. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Are Baskets Containing Celsius Eligible for Purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing Celsius are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. If you include Celsius in your shopping basket, you will need to pay for it separately using a different form of payment.
Does the Rule on Celsius's SNAP Eligibility Vary by State?
No, the rule on Celsius's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. SNAP guidelines are federally regulated, and supplements like Celsius are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
