Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if meals ready-to-eat (MRE) are eligible purchases.
Can You Buy an MRE with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy MREs with Food Stamps or EBT.
MREs are considered hot, prepared foods, which are not eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to cover groceries and cold foods that can be prepared at home, excluding items that are ready-to-eat or require minimal preparation. This restriction ensures that benefits are used for essential, unprepared food items.
How to Check If an MRE Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if an MRE 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.
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 purchasing.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While MREs aren't eligible, 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 like MREs that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are ineligible.
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 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 to complete the transaction.
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, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This makes it a practical choice for maximizing your benefits. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any exceptions to the rule that MREs cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits?
No, there are no exceptions. MREs are classified as hot, prepared foods, which are universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I attempt to buy an MRE with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction for the MRE will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing MREs eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing MREs are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. You will need to remove the MRE from the basket to complete the transaction using your EBT card.
4. How can I ensure that I am not attempting to buy ineligible items like MREs with my SNAP benefits?
Check for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. If still unsure, ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline before purchasing.
