Does EBT Cover Protein Shakes and Powders?

The Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system provides food assistance to individuals and families across the United States through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). A common question among beneficiaries concerns the eligibility of specific food products, particularly protein shakes and powders. This article clarifies the guidelines surrounding EBT usage and whether these items qualify for purchase.

Understanding EBT

EBT is the electronic system states use to issue food stamp benefits, now known as SNAP benefits. Functioning like a debit card, the EBT card allows recipients to make eligible food purchases at authorized retail locations. It helps low-income individuals and families acquire food items.

Benefits are loaded onto the EBT card monthly. Users access these funds by entering a Personal Identification Number (PIN) at the point of sale. This system ensures secure and efficient distribution of food assistance. The EBT card is widely accepted.

What EBT Can Buy

SNAP benefits cover a broad range of food items for home consumption. Eligible purchases include fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, breads, cereals, snack foods, non-alcoholic beverages, and seeds and plants that produce food for the household.

EBT benefits cannot cover certain items. These include hot foods prepared for immediate consumption, such as deli rotisserie chickens or hot restaurant meals. Alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, and non-food items like pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, and household goods are also ineligible. Vitamins, medicines, and any products with a “Supplement Facts” label are excluded from EBT purchases.

Protein Shakes and EBT

EBT eligibility for protein shakes and powders depends on how the product is classified. The distinction lies in the product’s label: whether it carries a “Nutrition Facts” label or a “Supplement Facts” label. If a protein shake or powder is a food item displaying a “Nutrition Facts” label, it is generally eligible for purchase with EBT benefits. This applies to pre-packaged, ready-to-drink shakes or protein powders meant to be mixed into beverages or food.

If the protein shake or powder is marketed as a dietary supplement, vitamin, or medicine, it will feature a “Supplement Facts” label. Products with this label are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Consumers should check the product labeling before purchasing protein shakes or powders with their EBT card.

Where to Use EBT

EBT cards are widely accepted at various retail locations. Most grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores accept EBT payments for eligible food items. Many farmers’ markets also participate in the SNAP program, allowing beneficiaries to purchase fresh produce.

Online EBT purchasing has expanded. Major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target, along with online grocery delivery services such as Instacart, Uber Eats, and DoorDash, now accept EBT cards for online grocery orders. When shopping online, users can filter for “SNAP EBT Eligible” items. While SNAP benefits cover eligible food items, delivery fees and other associated charges for online orders cannot be paid with EBT benefits and require an alternative payment method.