Shopping with SNAP
May 4, 2025
Understanding what can and cannot be bought with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. A common question is whether sea moss qualifies as an approved purchase.
Can You Buy Sea Moss with EBT/ Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy sea moss with Food Stamps or EBT.
Sea moss is not eligible under SNAP because it is considered a supplement rather than a food item. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple foods and beverages, and supplements, vitamins, and non-food items do not qualify. This distinction ensures that benefits are used for essential nutrition.
How to Check If Sea Moss Is SNAP-Eligible
To check if sea moss 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 You Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While sea moss 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 You Not Buy with EBT/Food Stamps?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like sea moss 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 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 item. 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 to complete the transaction.
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 offers cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about how Benny can help you manage your SNAP benefits more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is sea moss not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
Sea moss is considered a supplement rather than a food item. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing staple foods and beverages, and supplements do not qualify under the program's guidelines.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy sea moss with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted. However, the transaction for sea moss will be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are baskets containing sea moss eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, if a basket contains sea moss, it is not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. You would need to remove the sea moss from the basket to use your EBT card for the remaining items.
4. How can I confirm if a product like sea moss is eligible for SNAP benefits?
Check for "EBT/SNAP eligible" shelf tags or icons on retailer websites. You can also compare the product to USDA rules or ask the cashier or call your state SNAP hotline for confirmation.
