Can You Buy Juice with EBT/Food Stamps? (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 juice qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Juice with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy juice with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Juice is considered a staple food item under SNAP guidelines, making it eligible for purchase. The program allows for the purchase of most beverages, including fruit and vegetable juices, as long as they are intended for human consumption. This ensures that recipients have access to nutritious options to support a balanced diet.

How to Check If Juice Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if juice 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 while shopping.

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 juice, 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.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.

• Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals.

• Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products.

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 using another form of payment, such as cash or a credit card.

Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipts.

Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your benefits effectively by visiting Benny.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all types of juice eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

Yes, most types of juice are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are intended for human consumption and have a "Nutrition Facts" label. This includes fruit and vegetable juices.

2. Can I buy freshly squeezed juice from a grocery store with my EBT card?

Yes, freshly squeezed juice is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits if it is sold in a container and labeled with "Nutrition Facts." However, juice sold by the glass at a juice bar or café is not eligible.

3. Are there any restrictions on the size or brand of juice I can buy with SNAP?

No, there are no specific restrictions on the size or brand of juice you can buy with SNAP benefits. You can choose any eligible juice product that fits your needs and preferences.

4. Can I use my SNAP benefits to buy juice online?

Yes, you can use your SNAP benefits to buy juice online from approved retailers. Many major grocery stores and online platforms accept EBT for eligible food items, including juice.