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 milkshake qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Milkshake with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy milkshake with EBT or Food Stamps.
This is because milkshakes are considered a cold beverage, which falls under the category of eligible food items. As long as the milkshake is purchased from a grocery store or other retailer that accepts SNAP benefits, it qualifies for purchase. However, if the milkshake is bought from a restaurant or fast-food establishment, it would not be eligible under SNAP guidelines.
How to Check If Milkshake 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, if the item is hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption, it is likely 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 milkshake, 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 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 effectively. With Benny, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your EBT 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 there any restrictions on the type of milkshake you can buy with EBT?
Yes, there are restrictions. The milkshake must be a cold beverage purchased from a grocery store or retailer that accepts SNAP benefits. Milkshakes bought from restaurants or fast-food establishments are not eligible.
Can you buy a milkshake mix with EBT?
Yes, you can buy a milkshake mix with EBT. Since it is a packaged item intended for home preparation and consumption, it qualifies as a SNAP-eligible food item.
Does the eligibility of milkshake purchases vary by state?
No, the eligibility of milkshake purchases does not vary by state. SNAP is a federal program, and its guidelines are consistent across all states. Milkshakes are eligible as long as they meet the federal criteria.
Can you buy a milkshake as part of a larger grocery purchase with EBT?
Yes, you can buy a milkshake as part of a larger grocery purchase with EBT. As long as the milkshake and other items in your basket are SNAP-eligible, the entire purchase can be made using your EBT card.
