Can You Buy Milkshake 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 milkshake qualifies as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Milkshake with EBT/ Food Stamps?

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

The reason milkshakes are eligible is that they are considered a cold beverage, which falls under the category of allowable food items. SNAP benefits cover most grocery items, including drinks that are not prepared or served hot. Therefore, as long as the milkshake is purchased from a grocery store or a similar retail outlet, it qualifies for purchase with EBT.

How to Check If Milkshake Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if a milkshake 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?

Besides milkshake, 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 strictly prohibited.

• Household Supplies: Items like soap, paper products, and cleaning supplies are not eligible.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.

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

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 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 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 SNAP benefits more effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, as long as the milkshake is a cold beverage and purchased from a grocery store or similar retail outlet, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.

2. Can I buy a milkshake from a fast-food restaurant with my EBT card?

No, milkshakes from fast-food restaurants are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits because they are considered prepared foods.

3. Do all states allow the purchase of milkshakes with SNAP benefits?

Yes, the eligibility of milkshakes as a cold beverage is consistent across all states under federal SNAP guidelines.

4. How can I confirm if a milkshake is SNAP-eligible before purchasing?

Look for “EBT/SNAP eligible” shelf tags or icons on retailer websites, or ask the cashier. You can also check the USDA rules on the official SNAP website.