Universal Food Benefit instead of Citizen's Dividend

Interesting graph from the USA on the rise in food stamps.  From 26 million on the program at the start of 2007 to 44 million at the start of 2011. 

I know the idea of a citizen's dividend is unpopular in many circles.  The idea of giving everyone free money just doesn't sit well with the protestant work ethic, foundation of our society.  But people may be far more willing to entertain the idea of a universal food benefit.  Which would have the same effect since we all have to eat and money is obviousy fungible.

Sort of like how universal health care is a popular idea, even though technically we could say we are giving people something for nothing and discouraging work.

For example if everyone in Britain got £100 a month food benefit.  A family of 4 would get £400 a month tax free from that and that would make quite a difference in their lives.  The total cost of the program would be £74 billion a year.

In the US the food stamps are coming on electronic cards that get updated on the first of each month.  Its cheaper to administer that way and there is less stigma associated with using the cards, which appear as ordinary debit cards.