Can you buy baking soda with food stamps? The answer is yes! Even though you can’t eat baking soda on its own, it is a cooking ingredient that is used for everything from baked goods to tenderizing meat!
What is EBT?
When people say EBT, they’re typically referring to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). That’s the official name for food stamps. Although both food and cash benefits are paid on an EBT card, far more people receive food assistance than cash assistance.
When we refer to EBT in this article, we will also be referring to the SNAP program. That’s because there are stricter rules on what you can buy with SNAP than cash. If you can buy it with SNAP, you can also buy it with EBT cash.
Can you buy baking soda with food stamps?
Yes, you can buy baking soda with food stamps as long as it is intended as food for your household to consume. That’s part of the EBT rules.
When asked about this, the United States Department of Agriculture advised:
“Baking soda has a ‘Nutrition Facts’ label and is considered a food item by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); therefore, it is eligible for purchase with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
SOURCE: ask.usda.gov
The facts are settled! The USDA has authorized SNAP to be used to purchase baking soda.
What can you do with baking soda?
Although baking soda is a food item, it also has many uses that go beyond cooking. There are many different ways that you can use baking soda in your home.
Baking
Obviously, baking soda’s principle use is for baking. The chemical reaction created by the baking soda causes baked goods like cookies and cakes to become light, airy and fluffy. Basically, it’s a leavening agent.
Deodorizer
Baking soda is famous for neutralizing odors! Many people like to put an open box of baking soda in the refrigerator to absorb unwanted smells. As a deodorizer, it also has applications in cleaning and laundry purposes.
It’s easy to use baking soda as a deodorizer. You just need to sprinkle some in the area with the odors you want absorbed. Alternatively, some people just set an open box in their refrigerator.
Cleaners
Baking soda is also great for stain removal and cleaning purposes. Pinterest is replete with homemade cleaning recipes that people swear are more effective than store-bought cleaners. While I cannot attest to the veracity of those claims, it’s interesting to consider.
Toothpaste
Some people also like to use baking soda as a toothpaste, probably because of its deodorizing and cleaning properties.
According to Arm & Hammer, the best way to do this is to make a paste with equal parts baking soda and water. The company advised you to thoroughly rinse your mouth and toothbrush with water when you’re done.
How do I buy baking soda with food stamps?
You can buy baking soda with food stamps from basically any in-town retailer that is set up to accept food stamps.
As of now, you can even buy baking soda online with EBT from retailers like Amazon, Instacart and even Doordash in some areas!
Where can I buy baking soda with EBT?
Stores that accept EBT will have a sign on their door indicating that they accept EBT.
This includes major grocery store and supermarket chains such as:
- Albertson’s
- Fred Meyer
- King Soopers
- Kroger
- Piggly Wiggly
- Publix
- Safeway
- Sprouts
- Target
- Walmart
- Winn-Dixie
- Whole Foods
- and more!
Although most convenience stores and gas stations are also set up to process EBT transactions, it is less common for these stores to sell baking soda. You’re more likely to find this product on the shelves of major grocery stores.
FAQs about Buying Baking Soda with EBT
Over the years, thousands of people have asked us questions about buying things with EBT. Here are a few things that have come up repeatedly.
Can I buy something with EBT if I don’t plan to eat it?
Strictly speaking, the USDA has stated that the food benefits are intended to help you purchase food for your household. However, nobody is actually monitoring whether or not you actually eat what you buy. It’s an honor system of sorts.
Can I buy other cleaning supplies with my EBT card?
Baking soda, vinegar and lemon are common cleaning supplies but they are also food items. You cannot purchase soap, bleach, or other non-food cleaning supplies with your EBT benefits.
Nicole Thelin
Nicole is the founder and lead researcher of Low Income Relief. After a personal experience with poverty and homelessness following her husband's sudden medical discharge from the U.S. Army, Nicole discovered the life-changing impact of community resources. This experience ignited her passion for empowering others to navigate similar crises. Nicole launched her writing career at age 16, working for various newspapers and publications. Her commitment to in-depth research and accessible content has been recognized by Google for Publishers and other industry leaders. For over 20 years, she has applied her investigative skills to uncover the most helpful, up-to-date information on benefits programs and community resources, ensuring Low Income Relief maintains the most extensive resource databases available.