Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), are primarily known for allowing beneficiaries to purchase essential food items. However, the range of products eligible under SNAP can be broader and more varied than commonly known. Here are some surprising items you can legally buy with EBT:
- Seeds and Plants: SNAP benefits can be used to buy seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat. This means beneficiaries can start a small garden to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
- Energy Drinks: Certain energy drinks with nutrition facts labels (not supplement labels) are eligible for purchase. This can include popular brands, provided they meet the FDA’s criteria for food items.
- Live Seafood: EBT can be used to buy live seafood such as fish, lobsters, or shellfish. This is particularly useful for those who prefer to cook their seafood fresh.
- Bakery Items and Birthday Cakes: Bakery items are eligible, and in a surprising twist, even birthday cakes as long as the value of non-edible decorations does not exceed 50% of the purchase price.
- Gift Baskets: Surprisingly, gift baskets can be purchased with EBT if at least 50% of the basket’s value is food items. This makes it possible to buy certain holiday or specialty food baskets.
- Pumpkins: Pumpkins are eligible if they are edible, allowing for seasonal cooking. However, ornamental pumpkins and gourds intended for decoration are not eligible.
- Deli Foods and Prepared Meals: In some states, SNAP benefits can be used to buy prepared or deli foods that are to be eaten at home. This can include rotisserie chickens or prepared salads, depending on the state’s rules.
- Diet Foods and Specialized Beverages: This includes diet-specific foods such as gluten-free items or lactose-free milk. Certain specialized beverages, like almond milk or soy milk, are also eligible.
- Spices and Ice: Essential cooking items like spices, herbs, and even bags of ice are purchasable with EBT.
- Nutritional Supplements and Meal Replacements: Some nutritional shakes and meal replacements can be bought with EBT, provided they have a nutrition facts label.
Items Not Allowed with EBT
It’s important to note that EBT cannot be used for non-food items like alcohol, cigarettes, vitamins, medicine, pet food, household supplies, and hot food items prepared for immediate consumption. Also, fast food and restaurant meals are typically not allowed, except for beneficiaries who qualify under certain state-run Restaurant Meal Programs.
Conclusion
The SNAP program offers more versatility than often assumed, enabling beneficiaries not only to purchase a range of food products but also to invest in long-term food sustainability through items like seeds and plants. Understanding these options can significantly enhance the shopping experience and nutritional choices available to EBT cardholders.