17. Dumpster dive
Do you know how much food waste there is in this country? I made this next stat up, but over 75% of food in the United States of America is wasted. That’s too much, despite the fact it’s probably not true. You can help!
Grocery stores throw out food that’s still perfectly good but is too old to sell. Sure, maybe you don’t want to purchase a bunch of asparagus that won’t be good in a couple of days. But for free? That’s a good ass deal.
Now, the legality of doing this is questionable. So let’s ignore that part. Instead, let’s focus on all the awesome food you can get for free.
First, find a dumpster behind a grocery store. For the sake of this example. Let’s say a Trader Joe’s. Trader Joe’s is pretty good, honestly. Their dark chocolate peanut butter cups are some of the most important things that have ever been put in my mouth. What if some of those, still in their container, are put in the trash? That’s free tasty chocolate.
I wouldn’t recommend wearing nice clothes. It may get squishy inside the dumpster. Latex gloves are also a good idea. When you’re done, they can go straight into the dumpster too. That’s convenience.
Probably avoid stuff that could spoil in outdoor temperatures. That means a lot of dairy, or frozen products, or eggs. You’re free to take the risk if you would like; I can’t physically stop you. Just use your best judgment.
Full disclosure, I have never been dumpster diving. Also, I don’t plan to. You do it.