So, you’ve got an EBT card, which is also called a CalFresh card in California. That’s awesome! It’s a super helpful tool for getting groceries and making sure you and your family have food on the table. But, figuring out exactly what you can and can’t buy with it can be a little confusing. Don’t worry, we’re going to break down exactly what you can purchase with your EBT CalFresh benefits, so you can shop with confidence. Let’s dive in!
What Are the Basics: Food, Food, Food!
The main purpose of CalFresh is to help you buy food. This means the program covers a wide variety of groceries, but it’s not a free-for-all. The rules are pretty clear about what is considered an eligible food item. Basically, if you can eat it, you’re probably good to go. But it gets more specific than that, and we will break it down for you.
You can purchase most food items, including fruits, vegetables, meats, poultry, fish, and dairy products. This means you can stock up on healthy staples for your meals! That includes fresh, frozen, or canned options.
Fruits and Vegetables: Colorful and Healthy Choices
One of the biggest benefits of CalFresh is that it helps you get those important fruits and veggies! They’re packed with vitamins and are super important for staying healthy. Think of all the colors! The variety is endless and delicious. You can buy almost any type you want. This can really help get more of these important nutrients into your diet.
- Apples, bananas, oranges, and berries.
- Broccoli, spinach, carrots, and peppers.
- Frozen options like peas, corn, and mixed berries.
Consider planning your meals around what’s in season to get the best prices and freshest options. Farmers markets are a great place to find local produce that is often affordable when using your EBT card. Look for signs that say they accept EBT.
Here’s a quick list of ideas for a balanced meal:
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with berries.
- Lunch: Salad with chicken.
- Dinner: Chicken with roasted vegetables.
Meats, Poultry, and Seafood: Protein Power!
Protein is super important for building muscle and staying energized. CalFresh lets you purchase a variety of meats, poultry, and seafood to help you get enough protein in your diet. You can buy fresh, frozen, or canned options, which gives you a lot of flexibility for cooking.
When you’re shopping for these items, look for deals! Sometimes, meat and poultry can be expensive, but keeping an eye out for sales can help you stretch your CalFresh benefits further. You can also buy larger quantities and freeze them for later use. This helps to reduce waste.
Here is a table comparing the options:
| Meat/Poultry | Seafood |
|---|---|
| Beef, chicken, turkey | Fish (salmon, tuna), shellfish (shrimp, crab) |
| Fresh, frozen, or canned options | Fresh, frozen, or canned options |
You can also purchase items like eggs and beans, which are great sources of protein, too.
Dairy Delights: Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt
Dairy products are crucial for strong bones and teeth! CalFresh allows you to purchase milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products. It’s another great way to get the nutrients your body needs. You can find them in many forms.
Think about what dairy products your family enjoys most and plan accordingly. Consider the nutritional value of different options. Skim milk and low-fat yogurt are lower in fat but still packed with calcium. The selection is very diverse, so pick what best suits your needs.
Here is a brief guide:
- Milk: cow’s milk, soy milk, almond milk (check labels for eligibility).
- Cheese: Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss.
- Yogurt: Plain or flavored (look for options with less added sugar).
You can often find great deals on dairy products, especially if you buy larger containers or look for store-brand options.
Breads, Cereals, and Grains: Carb-Loading, the Right Way!
Carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy. CalFresh lets you buy bread, cereals, pasta, rice, and other grains. They are essential for a well-rounded diet. These are important for energy and keeping you full and satisfied.
Choose whole-grain options whenever possible! Whole-grain bread, brown rice, and whole-wheat pasta provide more fiber and nutrients than their refined counterparts. You can even save money by buying larger bags of rice or oats to make sure you get the best deal.
Here is a look at some options:
- Bread
- Cereal
- Rice
- Pasta
You can mix and match these with other food items for a balanced meal.
What You CANNOT Buy: Non-Food Items
While CalFresh covers a wide range of food items, there are some things you can’t purchase with your EBT card. These are important to know so you don’t accidentally try to buy something that’s not allowed. It’s all about focusing on food for nutrition.
Non-food items are generally not covered. Things like pet food, cleaning supplies, paper products, and personal hygiene items are not allowed. If you’re unsure about an item, check the store’s guidelines or ask a cashier.
Here is a list of some common items you CANNOT buy with EBT:
- Alcohol
- Tobacco products
- Vitamins and supplements
- Non-food items (like soap and diapers)
Always double-check to be sure.
The Bottom Line: Shopping Smart!
With your EBT CalFresh benefits, you can buy a lot of healthy and delicious food to nourish yourself and your family. By focusing on fruits, vegetables, proteins, dairy, and grains, you can create a balanced diet. Remember to plan your meals, check prices, and shop smart. You can stretch your benefits and make the most of what CalFresh offers. Happy shopping!