Access to healthy food is an essential component of life, and Seafood is an excellent source of nutrition. Knowing where to buy fresh seafood is important for individuals and families who rely on government assistance programs like EBT, SNAP, or Food Stamps.
This article explores everything you need to know about seafood stores that accept EBT, SNAP, or Food Stamps, guiding you toward smarter shopping choices.
What Are EBT, SNAP, and Food Stamps?
EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) cards are the modern means of distributing these benefits.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) was formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. It is a federal initiative aimed at combating food insecurity.
Eligibility depends on income level, family size, and state-specific guidelines. These programs are designed to allow families to purchase nutritious foods, such as seafood, that are rich in essential nutrients.
- Also read: Does Big Lots Accept EBT
National Chains That Accept EBT for Seafood
Several nationwide grocery chains accept EBT cards for purchasing seafood. These stores include:
Walmart
There is a wide selection of fresh, frozen, and canned seafood to choose from.
Customers can use their EBT card to purchase eligible seafood online (in some states) and in stores.
Website: https://www.walmart.com/
Kroger
Kroger supermarkets and their affiliates (e.g., Ralphs, Fred Meyer) accept EBT.
They stock fresh seafood like salmon, tilapia, shrimp, and more.
Website: https://www.kroger.com/
Costco
If you have a membership, you can use your EBT benefits to buy bulk seafood like fish fillets, shrimp, and crab legs.
Website: https://www.costco.com/
Safeway
Known for its fresh seafood counters and frozen options.
Accepts EBT payments at all locations.
Website: https://www.safeway.com/
Aldi
Provides affordable frozen and packaged seafood options.
Ideal for SNAP recipients looking for budget-friendly deals.
Website: https://www.aldi.us/
Online Seafood Delivery and EBT
Recently, more retailers have begun accepting EBT for online purchases. Some options include:
Amazon Fresh
Offers fresh and frozen seafood options.
EBT benefits are accepted in participating states.
Walmart Online Grocery
Purchase seafood online and pick it up in-store or have it delivered.
Instacart
Instacart partners with Aldi, Food Lion, and other stores to accept EBT payments for online orders including seafood.
Farmer’s Markets and Seafood Vendors
Farmers markets in some states participate in SNAP programs and may sell fresh seafood directly from local fishermen.
Programs like SNAP’s Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) support healthy choices for low-income families including fresh seafood. Check with your local farmers market to see if they accept EBT.
- Also read: Does KFC Accept EBT
What Seafood Items Can You Buy With EBT?
You can purchase any raw, fresh, frozen, or canned seafood that is not prepared or cooked.
✅Fresh Seafood
- Fresh fish fillets (salmon, cod, tilapia, etc.)
- Whole fish (catfish, trout, snapper, etc.)
- Raw shellfish (shrimp, crabs, lobsters, clams, mussels, etc.)
✅Frozen Seafood
- Frozen fish fillets or steaks (haddock, tuna, mahi-mahi, etc.)
- Frozen shellfish (scallops, shrimp, crab legs, etc.)
- Breaded frozen fish (if uncooked).
✅Canned Seafood
- Canned tuna, salmon, sardines, mackerel, or crab meat.
- Canned clams, oysters, or shrimp.
✅Dried or Smoked Seafood (if sold as a grocery item)
- Dried fish or shrimp (often found in international markets).
If your local farmers market participates in the SNAP program, you may be able to buy fresh seafood directly from vendors, such as locally caught fish or shellfish.
Seafood You Cannot Buy With EBT
SNAP benefits do not cover:
❌Prepared or Cooked Seafood
Cooked shrimp, fried fish, or steamed crabs from a deli counter.
Pre-made seafood platters or sushi rolls.
❌Seafood Served as Part of a Hot Meal
Items sold in restaurants or food trucks (unless the state participates in the Restaurant Meals Program).
❌Non-Food Items
Pet food containing seafood.
Seafood seasonings, oils, or cooking tools.
Key Points to Remember:
- EBT benefits focus on food items meant for home preparation and consumption.
- Always check with the retailer if you’re unsure whether a seafood item qualifies for purchase with EBT.
Tips for Finding Seafood Stores That Accept EBT
- Use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator: Search for stores near you that accept EBT using this online tool.
- Visit Major Grocery Chains: Stores such as Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, and Aldi often sell seafood and accept EBT.
- Check Local Seafood Markets: Many independent markets and vendors display signs if they accept EBT.
- Explore Farmers Markets: Some sell fresh seafood and accept EBT as part of SNAP programs.
- Shop Online: Use EBT on platforms like Amazon Fresh, Walmart Online Grocery, or Instacart for seafood.
- Call Ahead: Confirm with stores or vendors to ensure they accept EBT for seafood purchases.
- Ask for Recommendations: Local food banks or social services can guide you to EBT-friendly seafood vendors.
- Check International Markets: Many Asian or specialty markets accept EBT for seafood items.
Conclusion
Seafood is a nutritious and versatile food option that SNAP recipients can enjoy. Understanding where and how to use your EBT benefits, you’ll have access to a variety of fresh, frozen, and canned seafood options. Shop from major chains like Walmart or Kroger, specialty markets, and even farmers’ markets. There are many opportunities to create maximum profits for you.
