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 dry ice qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Dry Ice with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy dry ice with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because dry ice is not considered a food item under SNAP guidelines. The program is designed to assist with the purchase of food and beverages that can be consumed, and dry ice does not fall into this category. Therefore, it is not eligible for purchase using SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Dry Ice Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If the item 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 dry ice that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food products are not eligible for purchase.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, like those from a deli counter, are not SNAP-eligible.
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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Frequently Asked Questions
Is dry ice eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state?
No, dry ice is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits in any state. SNAP guidelines classify dry ice as a non-food item, making it ineligible for purchase regardless of location.
Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy dry ice with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy dry ice with SNAP. However, the transaction will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the dry ice from your purchase.
Are baskets containing dry ice eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing dry ice are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Since dry ice is a non-food item, any basket that includes it cannot be bought using SNAP benefits.
Why is dry ice not considered a food item under SNAP guidelines?
Dry ice is not considered a food item under SNAP guidelines because it is not consumable. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food and beverages that can be eaten or drunk, and dry ice does not meet this criterion.
