Can You Buy Seasonings, Spices, and Herbs With EBT?
Understand EBT eligibility for everyday food items and culinary essentials, and discover where to effectively use your benefits.
The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system is the primary method for distributing food assistance benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This system provides eligible households with a debit-like card to purchase groceries, aiming to improve food security and nutrition. EBT cards deliver federal benefits directly to individuals and families, supporting access to food items for home preparation and consumption.
Understanding EBT Eligibility for Food
Seasonings, spices, and herbs are eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. These items are considered food products intended for household consumption and preparation, similar to other common grocery items. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the SNAP program and confirms that a wide range of herbs and spices, including dried herbs like basil and oregano, spice blends such as curry powder, and individual spices like cumin, are eligible.
The general rule for EBT eligibility covers “any food for the household,” which includes most food products with a “Nutrition Facts” label. This broad category encompasses fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads, and cereals. Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages are also covered. The focus is on whether the item is meant to be consumed as food.
What You Cannot Buy with EBT
While many food items are eligible, certain products cannot be purchased with EBT benefits. These include alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and liquor, and tobacco products. Hot prepared foods meant for immediate consumption, like a hot rotisserie chicken or deli hot bar items, are also ineligible.
Non-food items are excluded from EBT purchases. This prohibition extends to vitamins, medicines, and supplements, especially those with a “Supplement Facts” label rather than a “Nutrition Facts” label. Other ineligible items include live animals (with exceptions for shellfish or fish removed from water), pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, household goods, and hygiene items.
Where to Use Your EBT Card
EBT cards are widely accepted at various retail locations across the United States. Most grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores participate in the SNAP program. Many farmers’ markets and some authorized online retailers also accept EBT payments for eligible food items.
To identify participating locations, look for signage displaying the SNAP or Quest® logo at the store entrance or checkout. The process for using an EBT card is similar to a debit card transaction, requiring the card to be swiped and a Personal Identification Number (PIN) to be entered. There are no fees charged for using your EBT card to purchase food.