Apr 24, 2025
Understanding what you can and can’t buy with SNAP, previously known as food stamps, helps recipients spend their benefits wisely. Many wonder if MREs qualify as an approved purchase.
Can I Buy Mres with Food Stamps?
No, you cannot buy MREs with Food Stamps or SNAP.
MREs, or Meals Ready-to-Eat, are considered a non-eligible item under SNAP because they are classified as a hot food product. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing groceries that can be prepared at home, and hot or prepared foods are generally excluded from the program. This restriction ensures that benefits are used for essential, unprepared food items.
How to Check If Mres is SNAP-Eligible
To check if MREs are 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 I Buy with SNAP?
While MREs aren'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 I Not Buy with SNAP?
While SNAP benefits cover a wide range of essential food items, there are products like MREs that cannot be purchased with these benefits, including:
Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, and liquor are not eligible for purchase.
Vitamins and Supplements: Items labeled with "Supplement Facts" are excluded.
Hot Foods: Foods that are hot at the point of sale are not covered.
Non-Food Items: Household supplies, pet foods, and hygiene products are ineligible.
What Happens If I Try to Buy an Ineligible Item with EBT?
If you try to buy an ineligible item with SNAP, the transaction will be declined at checkout. The cashier or the self-checkout system will notify you that the item cannot be purchased with your EBT card. You will need to use another form of payment for the ineligible item or remove it from your purchase.
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 lets you earn cash back on groceries and other purchases at stores like Walmart, Target, and 7-Eleven. Learn more about Benny and start managing your SNAP benefits more effectively today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are MREs eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits?
No, MREs are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. They are classified as hot food products, which are excluded from the program.
2. Will my EBT benefits be halted if I try to buy MREs with SNAP?
No, your EBT benefits will not be halted if you attempt to buy MREs. The transaction will simply be declined, and you will need to use another form of payment or remove the item from your purchase.
3. Are gift baskets containing MREs eligible for purchase with SNAP?
No, gift baskets containing MREs are not eligible for purchase with SNAP. Since MREs are considered ineligible items, any basket containing them would also be excluded.
4. Why are MREs classified as ineligible items under SNAP?
MREs are classified as ineligible because they are considered hot or prepared foods. SNAP benefits are intended for purchasing groceries that can be prepared at home, and hot or prepared foods do not meet this criterion.
