And the guidelines aren't automatic. From what I've seen its mostly up to what the cashier will let them purchase.
No...not in my state....the cashier has no say in the matter....it's all computerized. Any food that isn't freshly prepared (hot deli food) and ready to eat is allowed. So food stamps will cover almost anything in the frozen section...including ice cream, junk food...like candy or a pack of Oreos, a porterhouse steak or a bottle of soda, but not already cooked fried chicken or a prepared hero sandwich from the deli section of the grocery store.
Personally....I think it is ridiculous. Food stamps should be like WIC....WIC provides milk and nutritional foods only....low sugar cereals, milk, beans, juice, bread, rice, vegetables and fruits.
Candy and ice cream are not necessities....you want junk food? Get a job!
