Can you buy protein powder with food stamps?

Yes, you can buy protein powder with food stamps, also known as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, but only under certain conditions. The eligibility of a protein powder depends on how it is classified. Products labeled with "Nutrition Facts" are considered food items, which means they are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. In contrast, protein powders labeled with "Supplement Facts" are classified as dietary supplements, which are not eligible for purchase using food stamps¹.

Why This Distinction Matters

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) determines what products are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. Products labeled as "Nutrition Facts" fall under the category of food products, which the USDA defines as essential for daily dietary intake. On the other hand, products with a "Supplement Facts" label are considered non-essential supplements and are excluded from SNAP eligibility².

How to Identify Eligible Protein Powders

1. Check the packaging: Look for the "Nutrition Facts" label on protein powders, as this indicates the product is classified as a food item.
2. Avoid "Supplement Facts": If the label lists "Supplement Facts," the product is classified as a supplement and cannot be purchased with SNAP benefits.
3. Purchase from eligible retailers: Some retailers like Amazon clearly label which products are SNAP-eligible, making it easier for SNAP recipients to identify qualifying protein powders³.

Additional Shopping Tips

• Amazon offers the option to add your EBT card to your account, making it convenient to purchase eligible protein powders online. You can add your EBT card to Amazon here: Add EBT on Amazon.

In summary, protein powders labeled with "Nutrition Facts" are eligible for purchase with food stamps, while those labeled with "Supplement Facts" are not. Checking the label is essential to ensuring your purchase complies with SNAP guidelines.