Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with SNAP, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether peppermint oil qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Peppermint Oil with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy peppermint oil with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Peppermint oil is considered a non-food item and does not fall under the eligible food categories covered by SNAP. The program is designed to assist with purchasing essential food items and beverages, excluding supplements, vitamins, and non-food products like essential oils.
How to Check If Peppermint Oil is SNAP-Eligible
To check if peppermint oil 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 I Buy with SNAP?
While peppermint oil isn't eligible, 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 like peppermint oil 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 Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale, such as deli meals, are not covered.
Vitamins and Supplements: Products labeled with "Supplement Facts" are ineligible.
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 at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale 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. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for approved items.
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 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. Why is peppermint oil not eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Peppermint oil is considered a non-food item and does not fall under the eligible food categories covered by SNAP. The program is designed to assist with purchasing essential food items and beverages, excluding supplements, vitamins, and non-food products like essential oils.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy peppermint oil with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy peppermint oil. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing peppermint oil eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, baskets containing peppermint oil are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Since peppermint oil is a non-food item, any basket containing it would also be ineligible.
4. How can I confirm if a product similar to peppermint oil is SNAP-eligible?
To confirm if a product similar to peppermint oil is SNAP-eligible, look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also compare the product to USDA rules or ask the cashier for assistance.
