Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if PediaSure, a nutritional drink, is an eligible purchase.
Can You Buy Pediasure with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy PediaSure with Food Stamps or SNAP.
PediaSure is considered a nutritional supplement, which falls under the category of eligible food items covered by SNAP. These benefits are designed to help recipients purchase essential food products, including those that provide necessary nutrients for children and adults. As a result, PediaSure qualifies for purchase with EBT cards.
How to Check If Pediasure Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if PediaSure 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 PediaSure, 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 cleaning products, paper goods, and pet food are not eligible.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, such as those from deli counters, are excluded.
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 use another form of payment to complete the purchase for that item.
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 without hassle.
Additionally, Benny offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This means you can save more while shopping for essentials. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I find PediaSure in stores that accept EBT?
PediaSure is typically found in the baby or nutritional supplement aisles of major grocery stores and retailers that accept EBT. Look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" tags on the shelves to confirm its eligibility.
2. Are all flavors and types of PediaSure eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Yes, all flavors and types of PediaSure are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits as long as they are considered nutritional supplements. Always check the product label or ask a store associate if you are unsure.
3. Can I buy PediaSure online using my EBT card?
Yes, you can buy PediaSure online using your EBT card at participating retailers. Make sure the online store accepts EBT payments and that the product is marked as EBT/SNAP eligible.
4. Is there a limit to how much PediaSure I can buy with my SNAP benefits?
There is no specific limit on how much PediaSure you can buy with your SNAP benefits. However, your total purchase must stay within your available SNAP balance.