Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if greens powder is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Greens Powder with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy greens powder with Food Stamps or EBT.
The reason greens powder is not eligible under SNAP is that it is considered a supplement. SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase food items, and supplements, which are typically labeled with a "Supplement Facts" panel, do not qualify. This distinction ensures that SNAP funds are used for essential food products rather than dietary supplements.
How to Check If Greens Powder Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if greens powder 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 greens powder 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 greens powder 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 Foods: Prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with a "Supplement Facts" panel.
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 cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase to proceed. This ensures SNAP funds are used only for eligible food 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, 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. This means more savings on your everyday essentials.
Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits effectively by visiting Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is greens powder not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Greens powder is considered a supplement, and SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase food items. Supplements, which are labeled with a "Supplement Facts" panel, do not qualify under SNAP guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy greens powder with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. The transaction for the greens powder 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 greens powder eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if your shopping basket contains greens powder, the cost of the greens powder will not be covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the greens powder separately using another form of payment.
4. How can I ensure that the items I want to buy are SNAP-eligible?
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.
