Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if energy drinks are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Energy Drinks with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy energy drinks with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Energy drinks are eligible for purchase under SNAP if they have a nutrition facts label. This label classifies them as a food item, making them eligible for SNAP benefits. However, energy drinks with a supplement facts label are considered supplements and are not covered by SNAP.
How to Check If Energy Drinks is SNAP-Eligible
To check if an energy drink 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 I Buy with SNAP?
Besides energy drinks, 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.
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 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 with a supplement facts label 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 cashier or the checkout system will alert you. The item will not be covered by your SNAP benefits, and you will need to pay for it using another form of payment. This ensures that SNAP funds are only used for approved food items, helping recipients manage their benefits effectively.
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. How can I tell if an energy drink is eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Check the label on the energy drink. If it has a nutrition facts label, it is considered a food item and is eligible for SNAP. If it has a supplement facts label, it is not eligible.
2. Do SNAP eligibility rules for energy drinks vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for energy drinks are consistent across all states. The key factor is whether the energy drink has a nutrition facts label or a supplement facts label.
3. Are there any specific brands of energy drinks that are known to be SNAP-eligible?
Many popular brands like Red Bull and Monster have nutrition facts labels, making them eligible for purchase with SNAP. Always check the label to be sure.
4. Can I buy energy drinks online with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy SNAP-eligible energy drinks online from retailers that accept EBT payments. Make sure the online store clearly marks the items as EBT/SNAP eligible.
