Shopping with SNAP
Apr 24, 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 shakes qualify as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Protein Shakes with EBT/ Food Stamps?
Yes, you can buy protein shakes with EBT or Food Stamps.
Protein shakes are eligible under SNAP because they are considered a food item. As long as the protein shake is labeled with "Nutrition Facts," it qualifies as a grocery item, making it an approved purchase with SNAP benefits. However, if the shake is labeled with "Supplement Facts," it is classified as a supplement and is not eligible for purchase with EBT or Food Stamps.
How to Check If Protein Shakes 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, if it has a "Supplement Facts" label, it is not eligible. Additionally, hot, prepared foods meant for immediate consumption are generally not SNAP-eligible. For example:
Frozen pizza: It’s cold, packaged, and intended for home consumption. Therefore, it is SNAP-eligible.
Hot deli sandwich: 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.
Surprising Things You Can Buy with EBT
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.
Snack Foods: Chips, ice cream, candy, and other snacks.
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 self-checkout 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 approved items.
Manage Your SNAP Benefits and Get Cashback with Benny
Benny is a great option to manage your SNAP benefits effectively. With our app, you can check your EBT balance and transactions in real-time, helping you stay on top of your spending. Plus, earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at popular stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Download Benny to start saving on your EBT benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all protein shakes eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, not all protein shakes are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Only those labeled with "Nutrition Facts" qualify as food items and can be bought with EBT. Protein shakes labeled with "Supplement Facts" are considered supplements and are not eligible.
Do SNAP eligibility rules for protein shakes vary by state?
No, SNAP eligibility rules for protein shakes do not vary by state. The federal guidelines apply uniformly across all states, meaning that protein shakes with "Nutrition Facts" labels are eligible, while those with "Supplement Facts" labels are not.
Can you buy protein shakes online with EBT?
Yes, you can buy protein shakes online with EBT, provided the retailer accepts EBT payments and the protein shakes have a "Nutrition Facts" label. Many online platforms like Amazon and Walmart allow you to filter for SNAP-eligible items.
What should you do if your protein shake purchase is declined at checkout?
If your protein shake purchase is declined at checkout, it likely means the item is not SNAP-eligible. You will need to either remove the protein shake from your purchase or use another form of payment to complete the transaction.
