Is There Sales Tax on Groceries in Texas?

If you're shopping for groceries in Texas, you might wonder whether sales tax applies to your purchases. In most cases, unprepared food items are exempt from sales tax in Texas, making grocery shopping more affordable for consumers.

Tax-Exempt Grocery Items

The state of Texas does not impose sales tax on most essential food items, including:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables

  • Meat, poultry, and seafood

  • Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.)

  • Bread, rice, pasta, and other staple grains

  • Canned and frozen foods

  • Baby formula and other infant foods

These tax exemptions help ensure that basic nutritional needs remain accessible without additional costs.

Grocery Items That Are Taxed

While most unprepared foods are tax-free, certain grocery items do require sales tax, including:

  • Prepared or ready-to-eat foods (e.g., hot deli meals, sandwiches, rotisserie chickens)

  • Soft drinks and carbonated beverages

  • Candy and confectionery items

  • Alcoholic beverages

  • Dietary supplements and vitamins

If a grocery store sells prepared meals or beverages intended for immediate consumption, those items are subject to the 6.25% state sales tax, plus any applicable local taxes (up to 8.25% total).

Special Cases and Exemptions

  • SNAP (Food Stamps) Purchases – Items bought with Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are always tax-exempt, regardless of category.

  • Meal Kits and Bakery Items – If a meal kit contains only raw ingredients, it remains tax-exempt. However, fully prepared bakery items may be taxed if consumed on the store premises.

  • Grocery Delivery Services – If you order groceries online, the food itself remains tax-free, but delivery or service fees may be taxed.

Final Thoughts

In Texas, most grocery items are exempt from sales tax, including fresh produce, dairy, and pantry staples. However, prepared foods, sodas, candy, and alcohol are taxable. Understanding these rules helps shoppers save money and avoid unexpected charges at checkout.

George Dimov