Can SNAP benefits be used to purchase cooking wines and extracts

A) No, cooking wines and extracts are not eligible for purchase with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. According to USDA regulations, alcoholic beverages and products containing alcohol are specifically excluded from being purchased with SNAP benefits, including cooking wines and extracts.

While these products may be used in cooking, they are not considered food items and are not eligible for purchase with SNAP benefits. SNAP benefits can only be used to purchase food and beverage items intended for human consumption, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, cereals, and other similar items.

It’s important to note that retailers that accept SNAP benefits are required to have systems in place to prevent the sale of non-eligible items, including alcoholic beverages and cooking wines and extracts, to SNAP participants. If a retailer is found to be in violation of SNAP rules, they may be subject to penalties, including fines or loss of their authorization to participate in the program.

Please Note: 

Households CANNOT use SNAP benefits to buy:

• Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco
• Any nonfood items, such as:
• pet foods  
• soaps, paper products   
• household supplies
• Vitamins and medicines
• Food that will be eaten in the store
• Hot foods