As Americans face rising prices, business is booming at salvage grocery stores.
Places like Esh's, a market in Colorado, do things differently to make groceries more affordable. Among all the items they sell, some items might be nearing their expiration date. In some cases, packages are slightly damaged.
Other stores would often throw the items away, but salvage stores sell them at a discount.
"We're usually about 50-45% cheaper than any store out there," said Phillip Francis, a manager at Esh's.
Apps show where to find salvage food near you
You won't find salvage grocery stores in every community, but these days there are apps you can use, like Flashfood, which partners with stores in about half the country.
Josh Domingues came up with Flashfoodas a way to help consumers save money and cut down on food waste.
"It's not just a matter of big bad retailers," he said. "It's also as consumers when we go grocery shopping, we're reaching in the back for whatever has a longer shelf life."
The app allows users to find deals on foods that are approaching their "best by" dates.
"It usually has two to three days of shelf life, sometimes less, oftentimes more," Domingues explained.
But is it safe?
Cleveland Clinic registered dietitian Julia Zumpano says "best if used by" doesn't mean spoiled.
"It's just that it will maintain its best quality by that date," she said.
Instead of tossing food near its date, she says to check foods for:
- Mold
- Textures you wouldn't expect
- Unpleasant taste or smell
Otherwise, she said, there is nothing wrong with hunting for salvage food deals.
Shopper Venita Latimore found some amazing 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.
________________________
Don't Waste Your Money" is a registered trademark of Scripps Media, Inc. ("Scripps").
Like" John Matarese Money on Facebook
Follow John on Instagram @johnmataresemoney
Follow John on Twitter (@JohnMatarese)
For more consumer news and money saving advice, go to www.dontwasteyourmoney.com
