I’m all about saving money and reducing food waste anywhere I can. Groceries is a great place to start as it’s the easiest cost to control. By selling food at 50% off the retail price through Flashfood, grocers are able to recover costs, and significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Definitely a win-win-win situation for all!

If you’re in Canada, or select parts of the US (the list is growing!) – I recommend checking out the app to see what’s in your area. Get a $5 credit, see how it works and frequently asked questions.

Flashfood – here’s my guide on how to use it, and how it works!

Get $5 Credit!

  • The Flashfood app is my favourite savings secret when going to my local grocer! I use the app regularly to purchase food items– produce, meats & pantry goods at over 50% off.
  • Use this link to sign up, and get $5 credit once you make a purchase over $0.05 (no code required). After you sign up, you can also refer others as well and share the savings!

At first, when a friend introduced me to Flashfood, it sounded way too good to be true. But one day, I went for it – I opened the app, and selected my local Loblaws and checked out – all on the app! My first purchase was a pack of beef back ribs for $6 (down from the regular price of $18) – a real steal that I later used for a beef stew. Since that day, I’ve made an excuse to visit more often.

Note: I’m not compensated for this post. I have a genuine love to share good deals, I’ve even dedicated an Instagram highlight reel of it! I’ve used Flashfood regularly over the past 2 years, and enjoy it because it motivates me to try new recipes & ingredients! For every sign-up through my link you get $5, and I get credit to use towards Flashfood.

How it works:

  1. Download the app to find discounted food (up to 50% off).
  2. Select your items and add to cart.
  3. Pay in the app using any major credit card or Visa debit card.
  4. Go to the customer service desk, or online pick-up area (there will be a fridge and open shelving with signage for “Flashfood”).
  5. Let the associate know that you’re picking up a Flashfood order. They will verify your name, retrieve the items, and you’re good to go!
All of the below hauls were $5 each!

Tips & Considerations

  • The best time to check Flashfood is during the weekdays and/or during the day time. For me at least, I find that if I check the app before 11AM, I’m bound to find a refresh of products!
  • Be mindful of the “best before” date . Pick up by the “best before” date, otherwise you will not be able to redeem the product (no refund!).
  • Beware of stock images. Especially for perishable goods, the stock images do not provide an accurate reflection of what the actual product may look like.
  • Either pre-order or purchase when you’re there. I only pre-order because I trust that the product will be fine (but there was one time that it wasn’t – check the FAQ below). If you can, browse the selection (but this may not be an option during covid, be respectful of the rules).
  • When pre-ordering, it’s best to pick up your item the same day (or following day) that you purchase it. For two reasons: to make room for more inventory, or (very rare) your item may be picked up by another shopper by accident.

Would love to know your thoughts on the app, or if you found any tips! I regularly share the great savings with Flashfood on my Instagram, so these are a few of the FAQ that I frequently come across beyond “how it works”.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What grocery stores have Flashfood?

Check on the app where your closest Flashfood options are! Currently in the Toronto area, only Loblaws, NoFrills and Real Canadian Superstore is available. But in other provinces you can find Giant, Family Fare, Martin’s, Meijer & Maxi. I’m hoping that the options are currently growing, and more grocery stores get on board.

  • Where do I pick up my order?

Head to the customer service counter and let them know that you’re picking up a Flashfood order!

  • There’s a Flashfood location near me, but they always have limited items or are all sold out!

Some grocers are more on top of re-stocking their Flashfood selection than others. Or, perhaps your grocer is one of the most popular ones and people snatch up all of the stock quick!

  • I’m new! What are the most risk-free products to purchase?

Fruits and vegetables may be the most risky. I would start with pantry, meat and dairy products first! And once you’re comfortable, go for the fruits & vegetables. If you like, you can purchase when you’re at the fridge instead for ultimate low risk.

  • How do I get a refund?

You are unable to receive a refund from the store, but will need to request a refund directly from Flashfood by filling in this form. View the full details on the refund policy, and what to do, here.

  • Where is Flashfood available?

In both Canada and some part of the U.S. – the list of states & provinces is constantly growing! Here’s the full list.

$5 Sign Up Offer!

  • Flashfood is my favourite savings secret when going to my local grocer! I use the app regularly to purchase produce, meats & pantry goods at over 50% off.
  • Use this link to sign up, and get $5 credit once you make a purchase over $0.05 (no code required). After you sign up, you can also refer others as well and share the savings!

Let me know your thoughts!

Have you used Flashfood yet? What are your favourite finds! Do you use any other apps to get great deals like this?