Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 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 Red Bull, a popular energy drink, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Red Bull with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Red Bull with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because Red Bull is classified as a supplement, which is not covered under SNAP guidelines. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items that provide nutritional value, and energy drinks like Red Bull do not meet these criteria. Therefore, they are not eligible for purchase with EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Red Bull Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item 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 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.
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 Red Bull that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, including vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, such as hot deli items, are not eligible.
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 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 eligible food items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits effectively is crucial. Benny 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 like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Red Bull considered a supplement under SNAP guidelines?
Yes, Red Bull is classified as a supplement under SNAP guidelines. This classification is based on its "Supplement Facts" label, which disqualifies it from being purchased with SNAP benefits.
Can you buy a basket of groceries with Red Bull using SNAP benefits?
No, if your basket contains Red Bull, you cannot use SNAP benefits to purchase it. You would need to remove the Red Bull from your basket or use another form of payment for that specific item.
Will your EBT benefits be halted if you try to buy Red Bull?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy Red Bull. However, the transaction for Red Bull will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.
Are there any states where Red Bull is SNAP-eligible?
No, Red Bull is not SNAP-eligible in any state. The classification of Red Bull as a supplement is consistent across all states, making it ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits nationwide.
