Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bento?

Bento is a Medicaid health plan approved service provider that connects Medicaid health plan members with curated groceries. The groceries are tailored for individuals by Registered Dietitians based on their unique disease risk factors, nutritional requirements and cultural preferences. Bento grocery orders are delivered from a local grocery store.

Who Qualifies for Bento?

Bento is a Medicaid health plan covered service. Your health plan will determine if you qualify, and may require you to schedule a phone call and/or provide clinical documentation of a nutrition-sensitive health condition.

Qualification is not tied to immigration status, employment status, nationality, or any other factor other than your insurance provider’s eligibility criteria.

How much does Bento cost?

There is no cost to you, Bento is free! This is a new service provided by your Medicaid health plan to improve your overall health.

I use SNAP/EBT. Can I still enroll in Bento? 

Yes! These programs will not interfere with your Medicaid health plan benefits. 

What do I need to start using the program? 

To enroll and order with Bento, you’ll need internet access and a phone that is capable of receiving text messages so that we can send you a login code. 

Why do you need my phone number?

Your phone number is used to create your Bento account. Once you’re enrolled, we'll text you a code so you can log in and order groceries online or via SMS.

How do I enroll in Bento?

  • Next, provide your contact and health insurance information so we can confirm whether or not Bento is available for your insurance.

  • Based on your health insurance, you will be directed to complete steps that are required to assess your eligibility.

  • If you are approved to receive Bento, we will send you a text message with instructions on how to place your first grocery order.

Can I enroll multiple members of my family?

Yes, you can! Please note that each individual must have their own unique phone number to enroll and the same phone number cannot be used to enroll more than one person.

Once I’ve enrolled, how long does it take to get approval and start ordering groceries? 

Bento works with many different health plans, all of whom have slightly different approval response times. We will give you a more concrete estimate once you begin the application process. 

Once approved, how do I order groceries?

You can order groceries weekly, in four simple steps!

  1. Start your order

  2. Select your grocery order

  3. Choose a delivery date and time

  4. Checkout

  5. Submit your order

What can I order?

Once you are approved, our Registered Dietitians will assign you a nutritional profile. This profile determines which medically-tailored groceries you can order each week and our orders include proteins such as chicken, pork, turkey, salmon, tilapia, and beef, as well as whole grains, fruits and vegetables*. With each order, we provide recipes or meal ideas to help you get the most out of your weekly groceries.

*Your order options will vary based on your condition and your health plan.

What if I have a dietary restriction, like I’m vegan or gluten intolerant?

You will have the option to select grocery orders that meet your dietary restrictions and preferences.

I have a life-threatening food allergy; what are the options available to me? 

Currently, Bento does not support life-threatening food allergies. The groceries we deliver may contain or come in contact with common allergens, such as dairy, eggs, soybeans, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, shellfish, or wheat.

How can I get help if I need assistance during the enrollment or ordering process?

For Bento Member support, call (800) 936-3022 or email support@gobento.com.