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 juice qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Juice with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy juice with EBT or Food Stamps.
Juice is considered a staple food item under the SNAP guidelines, which means it is eligible for purchase. The program allows for the purchase of most beverages that provide nutritional value, including fruit and vegetable juices. This ensures that recipients have access to a variety of healthy drink options to complement their meals.
How to Check If Juice 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 has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is 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.
Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT
Besides juice, 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.
Energy Drinks: Eligible if labeled with a "Nutrition Facts" panel (not "Supplement Facts").
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.
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 for that specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You can either remove the item from your purchase or pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that only eligible items are bought with SNAP benefits.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are all types of juice eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Not all types of juice are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only juices that have a "Nutrition Facts" label qualify. Juices with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Can I buy freshly squeezed juice with my EBT card?
Freshly squeezed juice is eligible for purchase with your EBT card as long as it is not hot and prepared for immediate consumption. If the juice is sold cold and has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines.
Is there a limit on the amount of juice I can buy with SNAP benefits?
There is no specific limit on the amount of juice you can buy with SNAP benefits. However, your total purchases must stay within your available SNAP balance. You can buy as much juice as your balance allows.
Can I buy juice concentrates with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy juice concentrates with SNAP benefits. Juice concentrates that have a "Nutrition Facts" label are considered eligible items under SNAP guidelines, allowing you to purchase them with your EBT card.
