Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what you can and cannot buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether black seed oil qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Black Seed Oil with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy black seed oil with Food Stamps or EBT.
Black seed oil is considered a supplement, and SNAP benefits are restricted to purchasing food items. Supplements, vitamins, and other non-food products do not qualify under the program's guidelines. This ensures that benefits are used primarily for essential groceries and nutritional needs.
How to Check If Black Seed Oil Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if black seed oil 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 making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While black seed oil isn'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 black seed oil 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 Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Vitamins, medicines, and cosmetics fall outside the program's scope.
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 isn't covered by SNAP benefits. You'll need to pay for it using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card, to complete your purchase.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Managing your SNAP benefits can be easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or checking receipts.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, 7-Eleven, and many more. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is black seed oil not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Black seed oil is considered a supplement, and SNAP benefits are restricted to purchasing food items. Supplements, vitamins, and other non-food products do not qualify under the program's guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy black seed oil with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy black seed oil. The transaction will simply be declined for that item, and you will need to use another form of payment.
3. Are baskets containing black seed oil eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains black seed oil, the cost of that item will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the black seed oil separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure that I am not purchasing ineligible items like black seed oil with my SNAP benefits?
To avoid purchasing ineligible items, look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also compare the product to USDA rules or ask the cashier for assistance.
