Can You Buy Protein Drinks 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 protein drinks qualify as an approved purchase.

Can You Buy Protein Drinks with EBT/ Food Stamps?

Yes, you can buy protein drinks with Food Stamps or SNAP.

Protein drinks are considered eligible because they are classified as food items. As long as the product has a "Nutrition Facts" label, it qualifies under SNAP guidelines. This ensures that recipients can purchase items that contribute to their nutritional needs.

How to Check If Protein Drinks Is SNAP-Eligible

To check if protein drinks are 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 protein drinks, 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.

• Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are not eligible.

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

• Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products.

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 it using another form of payment or remove it from your purchase.

Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny

Managing your SNAP benefits is easier with Benny. Our app allows you to check your EBT balance and transactions instantly, eliminating the need for phone calls or receipt checks.

With Benny, you can also earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. This helps you stretch your benefits further. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are all protein drinks eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?

Not all protein drinks are eligible. Only those with a "Nutrition Facts" label qualify under SNAP guidelines. Drinks labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not eligible.

2. How can I identify if a protein drink is SNAP-eligible while shopping?

Look for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. Additionally, check the product label for "Nutrition Facts" to ensure it qualifies.

3. Do SNAP eligibility rules for protein drinks vary by state?

No, SNAP eligibility rules for protein drinks do not vary by state. The federal guidelines apply uniformly across all states.

4. Can I use SNAP benefits to buy protein drinks online?

Yes, you can use SNAP benefits to buy protein drinks online from approved retailers. Ensure the product has a "Nutrition Facts" label and the retailer accepts EBT payments.