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 wonder if protein drinks are an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Protein Drinks with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy protein drinks with EBT or Food Stamps.
This is because protein drinks are considered a food item under SNAP guidelines. As long as the drink has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies as a food item and is therefore eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. However, if the drink is labeled with "Supplement Facts," it is classified as a supplement and cannot be bought with EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Protein 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, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not eligible. For example:
Yogurt: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is packaged 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 protein 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.
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 eligible food 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are all protein drinks eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, not all protein drinks are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only those with a "Nutrition Facts" label qualify as food items under SNAP guidelines. Protein drinks labeled with "Supplement Facts" are considered supplements and cannot be bought with EBT or Food Stamps.
Do SNAP eligibility rules for protein drinks vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for protein drinks do not vary by state. The federal guidelines apply uniformly across all states, meaning that protein drinks with a "Nutrition Facts" label are eligible, while those with a "Supplement Facts" label are not.
Can you buy protein drinks online with EBT?
Yes, you can buy protein drinks online with EBT, provided the retailer accepts EBT payments and the protein drink has a "Nutrition Facts" label. Many large retailers like Amazon and Walmart offer this option, allowing you to filter for SNAP-eligible items.
What should you do if your EBT card is declined when buying a protein drink?
If your EBT card is declined when buying a protein drink, it likely means the drink is not eligible under SNAP guidelines. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. The transaction will not affect your EBT benefits.
