Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 honey qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Honey with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy honey with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Honey is considered a staple food item, which makes it eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food items intended for human consumption, and honey falls into this category. This ensures that recipients can include nutritious and natural sweeteners in their diet.
How to Check If Honey Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if honey 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 making a purchase.
What Can You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
Besides honey, 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 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 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 specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item is not covered by SNAP benefits. You will need to pay for the ineligible item with another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.
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 makes it simpler to save money while managing your benefits. Learn more about Benny today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any specific types of honey that are not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, all types of honey, including raw, organic, and flavored varieties, are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption.
2. Can I buy honey from a local farmers' market using my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy honey from a local farmers' market if the market accepts EBT payments. Many farmers' markets participate in the SNAP program and offer a variety of eligible food items, including honey.
3. Does the eligibility of honey for SNAP benefits vary by state?
No, the eligibility of honey for SNAP benefits does not vary by state. Honey is considered a staple food item and is universally eligible for purchase under federal SNAP guidelines.
4. Can I use my SNAP benefits to buy honey online?
Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to buy honey online from retailers that accept EBT payments. Many major online grocery stores participate in the SNAP program and offer a wide range of eligible food items, including honey.
