Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 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 Primo Water qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Primo Water with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy Primo Water with Food Stamps or EBT.
This is because SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing food items that provide nutritional value. Since Primo Water is classified as a bottled water service rather than a food item, it does not meet the eligibility criteria set by the program. Therefore, it cannot be purchased using EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Primo Water Is SNAP-Eligible
To determine if an item is SNAP-eligible, check its label. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it is likely eligible. Conversely, items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen vegetables: They have a "Nutrition Facts" label and are intended for home consumption. Therefore, they are SNAP-eligible.
Hot pizza: It’s hot, prepared, and meant for immediate consumption. Therefore, it is not SNAP-eligible.
If in doubt, compare the product to USDA rules to determine SNAP eligibility.
Additionally, large chain stores often use small shelf labels or icons that say "SNAP Eligible" or "EBT Accepted." Websites of large chains like Walmart, Amazon, or delivery platforms like Instacart often let you filter by SNAP-eligible items. If still unsure, ask the shop assistant before making a purchase.
What Else Can You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like Primo Water that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label, such as vitamins and dietary supplements, are not covered.
Hot Foods: Prepared foods that are hot at the point of sale, like hot deli items or restaurant meals, are not eligible.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and other non-food products cannot be bought with EBT.
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 at checkout. The cashier or the point-of-sale system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits. You will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase. This ensures that SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Primo Water ever eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, Primo Water is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. This is because it is classified as a bottled water service rather than a food item, which does not meet the eligibility criteria set by the program.
Can you buy a basket of groceries that includes Primo Water with SNAP benefits?
No, if your basket of groceries includes Primo Water, you will need to pay for it separately using another form of payment. SNAP benefits can only be used for eligible food items, and Primo Water does not qualify.
Will your EBT benefits be halted if you try to buy Primo Water with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy Primo Water. However, the transaction will be declined at checkout, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
Does the rule on Primo Water's SNAP eligibility vary by state?
No, the rule on Primo Water's SNAP eligibility does not vary by state. Since it is classified as a bottled water service and not a food item, it is universally ineligible for purchase with SNAP benefits across all states.
