Can You Buy Healthy Food With Food Stamps?

With the rising cost of living, it is becoming increasingly difficult for people to eat healthy and nutritious food. Food stamps are one way that many people have access to groceries, but not everyone knows if they can use them to buy healthy food.

The answer is yes – you can use food stamps to purchase healthy foods. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has specific guidelines for what foods are eligible for purchase with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, also known as food stamps.

Generally speaking, most foods that can be eaten are eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits such as fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry and fish. Dairy products like milk, cheese and yogurt are also eligible as well as breads and cereals. Fats and oils such as butter or margarine are also allowed.

However, there are some restrictions on what you can purchase with food stamps. Alcoholic beverages, cigarettes and tobacco products are not allowed. Hot foods or ready-to-eat foods from restaurants or grocery stores cannot be purchased either.

Foods That Are Not Eligible:

  • Candy
  • Cookies
  • Soda
  • Ice cream
  • Vitamins

Foods That Are Eligible:

In conclusion, it is possible to buy healthy food with food stamps. While there are restrictions on what you can purchase with SNAP benefits, such as no alcoholic beverages or ready-to-eat foods from restaurants or grocery stores, there is still a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, meats and dairy products that can be bought. With careful shopping and planning it is possible to create balanced meals that help keep your family nourished in a cost effective way.