Reducing Food Waste Through Community
An estimated 30-40% of the US food supply is wasted each year. This excessive waste harms the environment and highlights breakdowns in our food system. Many well-meaning individuals and organizations are working to address this complex issue.
Connecting Retailers and Shoppers
A new app called Flashfood aims to reduce food waste by connecting shoppers with grocery items nearing their best-by dates. Retail partners upload surplus items, and shoppers can browse deals, purchase items at deep discounts, and pick them up from the store.
Saving Money and Helping the Planet
For budget-conscious shoppers, Flashfood offers significant savings on quality products. By diverting food from landfills, it also reduces greenhouse gas emissions from rotting organic waste. The app incentivizes better inventory management by retailers as well.
Building a Sharing Community
At its heart, Flashfood is about bringing people together. It enables retailers to share surplus food at fair prices rather than discard items. And it allows shoppers to access bargains on items they may not otherwise afford. This sharing strengthens community ties.
Expanding Across North America
Since launching in Canada in 2016, Flashfood has grown rapidly. It’s now partnered with over 1,750 grocery locations across North America. As it expands, Flashfood aims to rescue even more food while saving shoppers money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Flashfood work?
Grocery partners upload surplus close-dated items to the app. Shoppers can browse deals, reserve items, and pick them up in-store at big discounts. Retailers then divert items from waste streams.
What kind of items are available?
Flashfood carries a wide variety including meat, produce, dairy, bakery, packaged goods, and more. Inventory varies based on a store’s surplus items.
How much can I save?
Discounts typically range from 30-80% off regular prices. Exact savings depend on the item, quantity, and store. Shoppers regularly see 50%+ discounts.
How do I pay and pick up items?
Shoppers pay for reserved items via the app, then pick up purchases from designated Flashfood sections in partner grocery stores.
Who can use Flashfood?
Anyone can browse and purchase items in the app! Just search for nearby grocery partners to start saving money and reducing waste.
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