SNAP benefits cover most foods you need to feed your household. Here’s what you can and can’t buy at the store.
What foods can I buy with SNAP?
You can use SNAP for these items:
Fresh, frozen, or canned foods:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks
Seeds and plants that grow food you’ll eat are also covered.
What can’t I buy with SNAP?
SNAP doesn’t cover:
Alcohol and tobacco:
- Beer, wine, or liquor
- Cigarettes or tobacco products
Health items:
- Vitamins or supplements (if it has a “Supplement Facts” label, SNAP won’t cover it)
- Medicine
- CBD or cannabis products
Hot foods:
- Food that’s hot when you buy it (like rotisserie chicken from the deli counter or hot pizza)
Non-food items:
- Pet food
- Cleaning supplies
- Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels)
- Soap, shampoo, and hygiene items
- Household supplies
Live animals (except shellfish, live fish from a tank, or animals butchered before you pick them up)
What about prepared foods?
Cold prepared foods are fine—like a deli sandwich from the refrigerator case or a cold rotisserie chicken. SNAP covers food you’ll heat up at home.
Hot prepared foods aren’t covered. If the store heated it for you, SNAP won’t pay for it.
Where can I use SNAP in Muscatine?
Most grocery stores accept SNAP. Look for signs at the checkout or ask staff. You can also check which stores accept SNAP using the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator.
Need help with SNAP?
If you have questions about your SNAP benefits or need help applying, contact the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services at 1-877-347-5678 or visit dhs.iowa.gov.
