The Core Rule: Nutrition vs. Supplement Facts
When it comes to purchasing items with EBT, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and sets the rules for what can be bought. For energy drinks, the rule is straightforward and depends entirely on the product’s label. Products that have a 'Nutrition Facts' label are classified as food and are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Conversely, products with a 'Supplement Facts' label are considered supplements, which are not eligible.
This simple labeling distinction is the single most important factor. It is the retailer's responsibility to correctly identify which items are eligible based on their labeling and to program their systems accordingly. This is why you can often buy a Monster energy drink but not a 5-hour Energy shot, despite both being designed to provide an energy boost.
How to Check the Label Yourself
To ensure an energy drink is EBT-eligible, follow these simple steps before you reach the checkout:
- Find the label: Locate the nutritional information on the packaging. It is usually a vertical or horizontal rectangular panel on the back or side of the can or bottle.
- Read the heading: At the top of the panel, read the title. It will say either “Nutrition Facts” or “Supplement Facts”.
- Verify eligibility: If the label says “Nutrition Facts,” the drink is eligible for purchase with your EBT card. If it says “Supplement Facts,” it is not.
A List of EBT-Approved Energy Drinks
Many popular energy drink brands carry a standard “Nutrition Facts” label, making them eligible for purchase with EBT. While it is always best to check the label yourself, the following brands are commonly approved:
- Monster Energy (all variants)
- Red Bull
- Rockstar Energy
- Bang Energy (many variants)
- Reign Energy
- C4 Energy
- GHOST Energy
- Alani Nu Energy
- Zevia
- Starbucks Double Shot (bottled coffee drink)
Examples of Ineligible Energy Shots and Products
On the other hand, many products designed as energy boosters are classified as supplements, not food. These are ineligible for EBT purchases. Common examples include:
- 5-hour Energy Shots
- CELSIUS Sparkling Energy (certain formulas)
- Pureboost Clean Energy Drink Mix
- Zipfizz Healthy Energy Drink Mix
- Jocko GO Energy Drink
Important State-Specific Restrictions (Starting in 2026)
While the federal rules regarding the labeling distinction are universal, a handful of states are implementing additional restrictions starting in 2026, pending USDA approval. These bans could affect energy drink purchases in specific states:
- Nebraska: Will ban energy drinks with stimulants like caffeine, guarana, or taurine.
- Other States: States like Arkansas, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, and Utah have sought waivers to restrict sweetened beverages, which may include some energy drinks depending on the specific legislation.
Because of these upcoming changes, it is important for consumers to check their specific state's laws in addition to the product's label to be absolutely sure of eligibility. For the most up-to-date information on retailer rules, you can visit the USDA Food and Nutrition Service website.
Comparison of EBT Eligible and Ineligible Energy Beverages
| Feature | EBT Eligible Energy Drink | EBT Ineligible Energy Supplement |
|---|---|---|
| Label Type | “Nutrition Facts” label | “Supplement Facts” label |
| Classification | Classified as food item | Classified as dietary supplement |
| Examples | Monster, Red Bull, Rockstar | 5-hour Energy, Zipfizz |
| Purchase with EBT? | Yes | No |
| Hot Beverages? | No (must be cold when sold) | Not applicable |
Broader Context: Other SNAP-Eligible Beverages
Besides energy drinks that meet the labeling criteria, EBT can be used to purchase a wide variety of other non-alcoholic beverages. These include:
- Soda and Soft Drinks: Unless specifically restricted by state law, most soda is eligible.
- Juice and Juice Concentrates: Both are generally eligible.
- Bottled and Sparkling Water: All types are approved.
- Coffee and Tea: Eligible if in a form that requires preparation at home, such as ground beans, K-cups, or tea bags. Cold, pre-packaged coffee drinks are also eligible.
Conclusion
Navigating EBT eligibility for energy drinks boils down to one simple rule: check the label. If a product has a 'Nutrition Facts' label, it is generally considered a food item and can be purchased with EBT benefits. If it carries a 'Supplement Facts' label, it is classified as a supplement and is not eligible. While popular brands like Monster and Red Bull are typically approved, it is vital to be aware of the product’s specific labeling and to stay informed about potential state-level restrictions that may affect your purchases in the coming years.
