Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what you can and can’t buy with SNAP, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients use their benefits effectively. Many wonder if protein shakes are an eligible purchase.
Can I Buy Protein Shakes with Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy protein shakes with Food Stamps or SNAP.
Protein shakes are considered a food item, making them eligible for purchase under SNAP. However, they must be labeled as "nutritional" or "dietary" supplements to qualify. If the label reads "Supplement Facts," they are not eligible, but if it reads "Nutrition Facts," they are. This distinction ensures that only products intended for nutrition, not supplements, can be bought with SNAP benefits.
How to Check If Protein Shakes is SNAP-Eligible
To check if protein shakes 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.
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?
Besides protein shakes, 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 that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items with a "Supplement Facts" label are excluded.
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 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 self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for that item or remove it from your purchase. This ensures SNAP benefits are used only for eligible food items.
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, 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. How can I tell if a protein shake is eligible for purchase with SNAP?
Check the label on the protein shake. If it has a "Nutrition Facts" panel, it is eligible for purchase with SNAP. If it has a "Supplement Facts" panel, it is not eligible.
2. Are there any specific brands of protein shakes that are commonly SNAP-eligible?
Many major brands like Ensure and Boost have products with "Nutrition Facts" labels, making them eligible for SNAP. Always verify the label to be sure.
3. Do the rules for buying protein shakes with SNAP vary by state?
No, the eligibility rules for protein shakes are consistent across all states. The key factor is whether the product is labeled with "Nutrition Facts" or "Supplement Facts."
4. Can I buy protein shakes online with my SNAP benefits?
Yes, you can buy protein shakes online with SNAP benefits if the retailer accepts EBT payments and the product has a "Nutrition Facts" label. Many major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart participate in the SNAP online purchasing program.
