Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether castor oil qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Castor Oil with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy castor oil with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Castor oil is considered a non-food item and is not eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to cover essential food items and beverages, excluding products that are not intended for human consumption or do not provide nutritional value. Therefore, castor oil, often used for medicinal or cosmetic purposes, does not qualify.
How to Check If Castor Oil is SNAP-Eligible
To check if castor oil is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags in stores 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 I Buy with SNAP?
While castor 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.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
What Can I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like castor 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.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
Prepared Foods: Hot foods and foods meant for immediate consumption are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
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, helping you stay on top of your benefits.
Additionally, Benny lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the ineligibility of castor oil for SNAP vary by state?
No, the ineligibility of castor oil for SNAP does not vary by state. Castor oil is universally considered a non-food item and is not covered under SNAP guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy castor oil with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy castor oil. The transaction 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 castor oil eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing castor oil are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. You will need to remove the castor oil from the basket to complete the transaction using your EBT card.
4. Why is castor oil not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Castor oil is not eligible for purchase with SNAP because it is considered a non-food item. SNAP benefits are intended to cover essential food items and beverages, not products used for medicinal or cosmetic purposes.
