Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether kombucha qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy a Kombucha with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy kombucha with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Kombucha is considered a non-alcoholic beverage, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. As long as the kombucha contains less than 0.5% alcohol by volume, it qualifies as a food item, similar to other non-alcoholic drinks like soda or juice.
How to Check If a Kombucha Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if kombucha is SNAP-eligible, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Most major grocers label qualifying foods, making it easier to identify eligible items while shopping.
Additionally, compare the product to USDA rules by visiting the official resource. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides kombucha, 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.
What Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are strictly prohibited.
Household Supplies: Items like soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are not eligible.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters.
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 cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, helping you stay on top of your benefits without hassle.
With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. This makes it a practical choice for maximizing your benefits.
Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the alcohol content in kombucha affect its eligibility for SNAP?
Yes, kombucha must contain less than 0.5% alcohol by volume to be eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. If the alcohol content exceeds this limit, it is considered an alcoholic beverage and cannot be bought with SNAP.
2. Are there any specific brands of kombucha that are known to be SNAP-eligible?
Most major kombucha brands that adhere to the alcohol content guidelines are SNAP-eligible. Always check the label or ask the retailer to confirm eligibility.
3. Can the eligibility of kombucha for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the eligibility of kombucha for SNAP benefits does not vary by state. The federal guidelines set by the USDA apply uniformly across all states.
4. How can I confirm if a specific kombucha is eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” tags on the shelf or product description. You can also ask the cashier or check the retailer's website for eligibility information.
