Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what you can and cannot buy with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if organic food is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Organic Food with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy organic food with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Organic food is eligible under SNAP because the program covers most food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy, regardless of whether they are organic or conventional. The primary goal of SNAP is to ensure access to nutritious food, and organic options fall within this category.
How to Check If Organic Food Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if organic food 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 organic food, 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.
Hot Prepared Foods: Meals that are hot at the point of sale, such as those from deli counters.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not covered.
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, 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 can help you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are there any restrictions on the types of organic food you can buy with SNAP?
There are no specific restrictions on the types of organic food you can buy with SNAP. As long as the organic food item is a grocery product, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
2. Do all grocery stores accept SNAP for organic food purchases?
Most major grocery stores that accept SNAP benefits also allow the purchase of organic food. However, it's always a good idea to check with the store beforehand to ensure they accept SNAP for organic items.
3. Is there a price limit on organic food items purchased with SNAP?
There is no price limit on organic food items purchased with SNAP. You can buy any organic food item as long as you have sufficient funds in your EBT account.
4. Can you buy organic food online with SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy organic food online with SNAP benefits through participating retailers. Many online grocery services now accept EBT payments, making it easier to access organic food.
