The rules governing what you can buy with SNAP benefits, loaded onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, can be complex, especially concerning beverages. While the general rule is that most non-alcoholic food items with a 'Nutrition Facts' label are eligible, specifics depend on temperature and, increasingly, location. It's crucial for beneficiaries to understand these guidelines to shop effectively.
What Beverages Are Generally SNAP-Eligible?
For most of the United States, a wide range of drinks can be purchased with an EBT card. This is because, under federal guidelines, most non-alcoholic items intended for home consumption are considered 'food.'
- Juice and Juice Concentrates: Most fruit and vegetable juices, including concentrates and juice boxes, are eligible. Note that some state-specific rules starting in 2026 may impose restrictions based on juice content.
- Bottled Water and Seltzer: Plain and flavored bottled water, as well as seltzer, are almost always covered by SNAP benefits.
- Soda and Soft Drinks: Until 2026, the purchase of soda and other sweetened soft drinks is permitted under federal rules in most states. However, significant state-level changes are coming.
- Energy Drinks: These are eligible as long as they have a 'Nutrition Facts' label rather than a 'Supplement Facts' label. Many popular brands like Red Bull and Monster fall into this category.
- Milk and Milk Alternatives: Dairy milk and alternatives like soy, almond, and rice milk are all eligible.
- Coffee and Tea (Unprepared): Packaged coffee beans, ground coffee, K-cups, instant coffee, and tea bags are eligible for purchase.
- Iced Coffee and Cold Drinks (Packaged): As long as they are sold cold in a sealed container for at-home consumption, items like bottled iced coffee and smoothies are covered.
What Beverages Are NOT SNAP-Eligible?
Several categories of drinks are strictly prohibited from purchase with SNAP benefits across all states. These are generally non-food items, alcohol, or prepared items.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Beer, wine, liquor, and any other alcoholic products cannot be purchased with SNAP.
- Hot, Prepared Drinks: This is one of the most common points of confusion. Any hot drink, such as a freshly brewed coffee, hot chocolate from a kiosk, or a restaurant-prepared beverage, is not eligible. The rule applies to any food or drink hot at the point of sale.
- Energy Drinks Labeled as Supplements: If an energy drink or shot has a 'Supplement Facts' label instead of a 'Nutrition Facts' label, it is considered a supplement and cannot be purchased with an EBT card.
- Drinks Not for At-Home Consumption: In a store, a cold canned coffee is fine, but a fountain soda from a lunch counter is generally not, as it is meant to be consumed on-site.
Impact of Upcoming State-Level SNAP Restrictions
Historically, SNAP eligibility rules have been uniform nationwide, set by the USDA. However, beginning in 2026, several states have received waivers to ban specific types of beverages, primarily sugary and artificially sweetened drinks, from SNAP purchases. This marks a significant shift in policy, introducing state-specific variations for beneficiaries.
Comparison of Beverage Eligibility (Before and After 2026 State Waivers)
| Beverage Type | General Rule (Pre-2026) | State-Specific Waivers (Starting 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Soda & Soft Drinks | Eligible in all states. | Restricted in states like Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah. |
| Energy Drinks (Nutrition Label) | Eligible in all states. | Restricted in Nebraska, potentially other states. |
| Fruit Drinks (<50% Juice) | Eligible in most states. | Restricted in Arkansas, Iowa. |
| Bottled Water | Eligible in all states. | Eligible in all states. |
| Juice (100% Juice) | Eligible in all states. | Eligible in all states. |
| Alcoholic Beverages | Not Eligible in any state. | Not Eligible in any state. |
| Hot Prepared Coffee | Not Eligible in any state. | Not Eligible in any state. |
How to Verify a Drink's Eligibility
For beneficiaries, checking a drink's eligibility comes down to two key factors: its label and its temperature at the point of sale. For most in-store items, a quick check of the label is sufficient.
- Check the Label: Look for a 'Nutrition Facts' label, which indicates the item is classified as a food product and is generally SNAP-eligible. Items with a 'Supplement Facts' label are not.
- Check the Temperature: Is the drink hot and ready to be consumed immediately? If so, it's not eligible. If it's cold or packaged for later use, it likely is.
- Stay Informed on State Rules: Given the upcoming changes, it is vital to stay updated on your specific state's rules, especially concerning sugary or sweetened beverages. The USDA Food and Nutrition Service website is the most reliable resource for federal regulations.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of SNAP-eligible drinks requires an understanding of federal guidelines and, now more than ever, specific state restrictions. While most cold, non-alcoholic drinks with a 'Nutrition Facts' label are eligible, it's important to remember that hot beverages and alcoholic products are always off-limits. With several states moving to restrict sugary drinks beginning in 2026, it's crucial for beneficiaries to check their local rules to ensure a smooth shopping experience. Staying informed and knowing what to look for will help SNAP recipients make the best purchasing decisions for their household's needs. For the most current federal information, consult the USDA Food and Nutrition Service site.
