Can You Buy Energy Drinks with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 energy drinks qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Energy Drinks with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy energy drinks with EBT or Food Stamps.

Energy drinks are eligible under SNAP if they have a nutrition facts label. This label classifies them as a food item, making them an approved purchase. However, energy drinks with a supplement facts label are considered supplements and are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

How to Check If Energy Drinks 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 pizza: It’s cold, packaged, and intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.

• Hot soup from a deli: 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.

Additionally, 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.

Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT

Besides energy drinks, you might be surprised to know that SNAP benefits cover many of these items:

• Plants: Vegetable seeds, fruit plants, and starters used to grow food at home.

• Farmers’ Markets: Eligible at many markets, often via tokens or electronic payments.

• Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Decorated birthday cakes and baked goods.

• Seafood and Fresh Meat: Fresh, frozen, or canned seafood and meats.

• Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.

• Special Dietary Foods: Gluten-free, diabetic-friendly, and allergen-free foods.

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 approved items.

Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits. It 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.

Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all energy drinks eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

No, not all energy drinks are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only those with a "Nutrition Facts" label qualify as food items and can be bought with EBT. Energy drinks with a "Supplement Facts" label are considered supplements and are not eligible.

Can the eligibility of energy drinks for SNAP benefits vary by state?

No, the eligibility of energy drinks for SNAP benefits does not vary by state. The federal guidelines set by the USDA apply nationwide, meaning that energy drinks with a "Nutrition Facts" label are eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not.

What should I do if my energy drink purchase is declined at checkout?

If your energy drink purchase is declined at checkout, it likely means the item is not eligible under SNAP guidelines. You will need to either use another form of payment or remove the energy drink from your purchase.

Can I buy energy drinks online with my EBT card?

Yes, you can buy energy drinks online with your EBT card, provided the retailer accepts EBT and the energy drink has a "Nutrition Facts" label. Many online platforms like Amazon and Walmart allow you to filter for SNAP-eligible items, making it easier to shop within the guidelines.