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. A common question is whether baby snacks qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Baby Snacks with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy baby snacks with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Baby snacks are considered eligible because they fall under the category of food items intended for human consumption. SNAP benefits are designed to help families purchase nutritious food, and baby snacks meet the criteria by providing essential nutrients for infants and toddlers.
How to Check If Baby Snacks Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if baby snacks are 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 baby snacks, 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 not eligible for purchase.
Household Supplies: Items like cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are excluded.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" 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 specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.
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 receipt checks.
Additionally, Benny helps you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can simplify your SNAP benefits management by visiting Benny.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are all types of baby snacks eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, most baby snacks are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as they are considered food items intended for human consumption. However, always check for the "EBT/SNAP eligible" label to be sure.
2. Do baby snacks need to meet specific nutritional criteria to be eligible for SNAP?
No, baby snacks do not need to meet specific nutritional criteria to be eligible for SNAP. As long as they are labeled as food items, they qualify for purchase with SNAP benefits.
3. Can I buy baby snacks online using my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy baby snacks online using your EBT card at participating retailers. Make sure the online store accepts EBT payments and that the items are marked as EBT/SNAP eligible.
4. Are there any states where baby snacks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, baby snacks are generally eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states. However, always check local guidelines or consult your state SNAP hotline for specific information.
