As Americans face rising prices, business is booming at thrift grocery stores.
places like of GodOne market in Colorado does things differently to make groceries more affordable.
They sell items that may be nearing their expiration date or packages that are slightly damaged.
Other stores often throw items away, but thrift stores sell them at a discount.
“We’re usually about 50% to 45% cheaper than any store,” said Philip Francis, a manager at Ash.
Apps show where to find rescue food near you
You won’t find salvage grocery stores in every community, but these days there are apps you can use, such as Flash food, Which partners with stores in about half the country.
came up with josh dominguez Flash food As a way to help consumers save money and cut down on food waste.
“It’s not just the big bad retailers,” he said. “It’s also as consumers when we go grocery shopping, we’re reaching back for longer shelf lives.”
The app allows users to find deals on foods that are getting closer to their best-by dates.
“It’s usually two to three days of shelf life, sometimes less, sometimes more,” Dominguez explained.
But is it safe?
Dietician Julia Zumpano says that “best if used” does not mean bad.
“It’s just that it will retain its best quality until that date,” she said.
Instead of tossing food near her date, she says to check out the foods:
- mold
- texture you wouldn’t expect
- unpleasant taste or smell
Otherwise, she said, there’s nothing wrong with falling victim to salvage food deals.
Shopper Venita Latimore found some great deals on Flashfood.
“They had a whole rack of lamb for five bucks,” she said. “that’s a deal!”
And that way you don’t waste your money.
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