So, you’ve got an EBT card, also known as CalFresh in California, and you’re wondering what you can actually buy with it. That’s a great question! Knowing what your benefits cover helps you make smart choices at the grocery store and ensures you’re getting the most out of your food assistance. Let’s break down the basics and explore the different types of food and items your EBT card can help you purchase.
What’s the Most Important Thing to Know?
The most important thing to remember is that your EBT card is specifically for buying food. This means it’s designed to help you and your family get the groceries you need to stay healthy and nourished. With your EBT card, you can buy food items that are meant for you to eat or drink at home. This is a pretty broad category, but it’s good to start with the basics!
Fruits and Vegetables Galore!
One of the best things about using your EBT card is the ability to stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables. These are super important for your health, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Think about all those yummy colors on your plate! Whether you prefer apples, bananas, carrots, or broccoli, your EBT card can help you get what you need.
Here are some examples of the many fresh fruits and vegetables you can purchase with your EBT card:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Oranges
- Spinach
- And many more!
Don’t forget that you can also buy fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro. These can really spice up your meals!
You can also purchase pre-cut veggies and fruit salads, but just make sure there are no other ingredients like a pre-made dressing that is not a food item.
Meats, Poultry, and Seafood: Protein Power!
Protein is super important for building and repairing your body. You can use your EBT card to buy a variety of meats, poultry, and seafood. This includes things like chicken breasts, ground beef, salmon, and even frozen fish sticks. It’s all about fueling your body with the nutrients it needs.
Make sure to look for fresh, frozen or canned items, with no extra ingredients or sauces, that are not a food item. Here’s a little breakdown:
- Fresh chicken breasts
- Ground beef
- Frozen fish fillets
- Canned tuna
Make sure you also read labels, and check if items are not a food item.
Dairy Products: Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt
Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are important sources of calcium, which helps keep your bones strong. Fortunately, you can buy these items with your EBT card. There’s a wide variety to choose from!
Here are some dairy products you can buy with your EBT card, and remember that this list is not exhaustive:
- Milk (cow’s milk, almond milk, soy milk)
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, etc.)
- Yogurt (plain, flavored, etc.)
- Butter
There are also a few things you should keep in mind. Be sure to double-check that the item is a food item! Be mindful of expiration dates, too.
Grains: Bread, Pasta, and Rice
Grains are a vital part of a balanced diet, providing you with energy to get through your day. EBT covers a whole bunch of grain products, which means you have options like bread for sandwiches, pasta for dinner, and rice as a side dish.
Here are some grains you can purchase with your EBT card:
- Bread
- Pasta
- Rice
- Oats
- Cereals
Make sure to pick a variety of grains to get a good balance of nutrients. You can also choose whole-grain options for more fiber!
Other Food Items: Snacks and More
Beyond the main food groups, there are also many other food items you can purchase with your EBT card. This includes snacks, drinks, and some other essential ingredients that make meal planning easier. Just be sure to check the item is not considered a non-food item.
Here’s a little table of some of the food items that you may be able to buy:
| Food Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Snack Foods | Chips, crackers, cookies, etc. |
| Drinks | Juice, soda, etc. |
| Spices and Seasonings | Salt, pepper, etc. |
The most important thing to do is to always check the item is not a non-food item.
What You CAN’T Buy: Non-Food Items
While your EBT card covers a wide range of food, there are also things you can’t buy with it. These items are generally considered non-food items and aren’t covered by the program. These include alcohol, tobacco products, vitamins, medicine, and household supplies.
Here is a list of non-food items you can NOT buy with your EBT card:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Pet food
- Household supplies
This is not an exhaustive list, so always read the labels and make sure the item you are purchasing is a food item and eligible for EBT. This also means things like paper towels, soap, diapers, and other non-food items are out.
In Conclusion, your EBT card is a valuable tool for purchasing groceries and ensuring you have the food you need. Knowing what you can and can’t buy will help you make the most of your benefits and enjoy healthy, delicious meals.