Can You Buy Seafood 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 seafood qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Seafood with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy seafood with EBT or Food Stamps.

Seafood is eligible under SNAP because it is considered a staple food item. The program allows the purchase of most uncooked and unprepared foods, including fish and shellfish, as they provide essential nutrients and contribute to a balanced diet. This inclusion helps ensure that recipients have access to a variety of healthy food options.

How to Check If Seafood Is SNAP-Eligible

To determine if seafood or any other item is SNAP-eligible, check the label. If the item has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not eligible. For example:

• Frozen shrimp: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is uncooked, making it SNAP-eligible.

• Fried fish from the 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.

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 seafood, 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.

• 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 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

Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits. Our app 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 there any restrictions on the type of seafood you can buy with EBT?

Yes, there are restrictions. Only uncooked and unprepared seafood is eligible for purchase with EBT. This means items like fresh fish, shrimp, and shellfish are allowed, but prepared items like sushi or cooked seafood from a deli are not.

Can you buy live seafood with EBT?

Yes, live seafood such as lobsters, crabs, and other shellfish can be purchased with EBT. These items are considered uncooked and unprepared, making them eligible under SNAP guidelines.

Does the eligibility of seafood vary by state?

No, the eligibility of seafood under SNAP does not vary by state. The federal guidelines apply uniformly across all states, allowing the purchase of uncooked and unprepared seafood with EBT.

Can you buy seafood at farmers' markets with EBT?

Yes, you can buy seafood at farmers' markets with EBT, provided the market and the vendor accept SNAP benefits. Many farmers' markets now participate in the SNAP program, offering a variety of fresh, uncooked seafood options.