Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 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 castor oil qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Castor Oil with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy castor oil with Food Stamps or EBT.
Castor oil is considered a non-food item under SNAP guidelines. The program restricts purchases to food and beverages meant for human consumption, excluding items like vitamins, supplements, and oils that are not directly consumed as food. This classification means that castor oil does not qualify for purchase with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Castor Oil Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It has a "Nutrition Facts" label and is intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
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, liquor, and other alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as multivitamins and herbal supplements, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet food, and personal care products fall outside the scope of SNAP benefits.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals and snacks that are hot and ready for immediate consumption, like those from a deli counter, are not covered.
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 at checkout. 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. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
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Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app lets you check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Castor Oil Ever Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
No, castor oil is never eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. It is classified as a non-food item under SNAP guidelines, which restricts purchases to food and beverages meant for human consumption.
Can a Basket Containing Castor Oil Be Purchased with SNAP Benefits?
No, if your shopping basket contains castor oil, the entire basket is not disqualified. Only the castor oil itself will be flagged as ineligible at checkout. You will need to use another form of payment for the castor oil or remove it from your purchase.
Will My EBT Benefits Be Halted If I Try to Buy Castor Oil?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you try to buy castor oil. The transaction for the castor oil will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Why Is Castor Oil Not Eligible for Purchase with SNAP Benefits?
Castor oil is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits because it is considered a non-food item. SNAP benefits are intended for food and beverages meant for human consumption, and castor oil does not fall under this category.
