Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as Food Stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if lactation cookies qualify as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Lactation Cookies with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy lactation cookies with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Lactation cookies are considered a food item, which makes them eligible for purchase under SNAP guidelines. The program allows for the purchase of most food products intended for human consumption, and lactation cookies fall into this category. This means that recipients can use their benefits to buy these cookies just like any other grocery item.
How to Check If Lactation Cookies is SNAP-Eligible
To check if lactation cookies are 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 I Buy with SNAP?
Besides lactation cookies, 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 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:
Alcohol and Tobacco: These items are strictly prohibited under SNAP guidelines.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.
Hot Prepared Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and personal care products are excluded.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the transaction will be declined for that specific item. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase to complete the transaction.
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, 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. Are all brands of lactation cookies eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Yes, as long as the lactation cookies are considered a food item and not labeled with "Supplement Facts," they are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Can I buy lactation cookies online using my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy lactation cookies online from retailers that accept EBT payments. Make sure to check if the online store is authorized to process SNAP transactions.
3. Do lactation cookies need to meet any specific nutritional guidelines to be SNAP-eligible?
No, lactation cookies do not need to meet specific nutritional guidelines to be SNAP-eligible. They simply need to be classified as a food item.
4. Are homemade lactation cookies eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, homemade lactation cookies cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. SNAP only covers pre-packaged and commercially prepared food items.
