As customers search for deeper discounts, they appear to be moving away from traditional grocery stores. In recent months, sales have soared at salvage supermarkets, no-frills operations where shoppers can buy food that's discounted, sometimes by more than 50 percent. The lower price, however, comes at a cost. Consumers may be buying crushed cereal boxes, dented canned tomatoes, or salad dressing bottles past their sell-by date. Inventory isn't consistent; availability is contingent on what brokers ship to the store. Many shoppers are middle-class consumers who buy the majority of their food from regular grocery stores, but see salvage grocers as an opportunity for bargains. Like their conventional counterparts, these markets must also face inspections and regulations. Although inspectors aren't concerned about sell-by dates, as manufacturer dates don't imply when something is safe to eat, but rather when quality is best. Are you familiar with the salvage grocers in your area? Would you be interested in visiting one?

Source: Getty
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