Last reviewed: 23 October 2026
Looking for ways to reduce your weekly grocery bill?
Many UK households are unaware that there are legitimate services offering free surplus food or discounted food from local businesses.
Here are three practical options worth exploring.
1. Olio - Find Free Food Near You
Olio is a food-sharing platform that connects people with surplus food and other items in their local communities.
Some supermarkets and businesses work with Olio volunteers, known as Food Waste Heroes, who collect surplus food and make it available to people nearby.
How to get started
Download the Olio app, create an account and browse available food listings in your area.
When you find something suitable, request it through the app and arrange collection with the person sharing it.
Availability varies depending on your location and what people are offering. Free groceries are not guaranteed every day.
Official website: olioapp.com
2. Community Fridges - Access Surplus Food Locally
The UK's Community Fridge Network, coordinated by the environmental charity Hubbub, helps communities share surplus food that might otherwise go to waste.
Community fridges are generally open to everyone and are not means-tested.
They operate in places such as community centres, shops and other shared spaces.
Before visiting, check your nearest fridge's location, opening hours and any local collection arrangements.
Find a community fridge: Hubbub Community Fridge Network
3. Too Good To Go - Buy Surplus Food at Reduced Prices
Too Good To Go is another option for reducing food costs.
Unlike Olio's free food listings, Too Good To Go generally offers paid, discounted food from participating shops, bakeries, restaurants and cafés.
Through the app, you can browse available Surprise Bags, pay for one and collect it during the specified time window.
You may not know the exact contents in advance, so always consider dietary requirements and whether the food is suitable for your household.
Official website: toogoodtogo.com
Important Food Safety Advice
Always check food storage instructions and date labels.
A use-by date relates to food safety, while a best-before date generally concerns quality.
Do not eat food after its use-by date. Follow the Food Standards Agency's advice on safe food handling and storage.
Food safety information: Food Standards Agency
Which Option Should You Try First?
If you want to explore completely free food, start with Olio or a nearby community fridge.
If you're happy to pay a reduced price for surplus food, consider Too Good To Go.
Remember that availability, collection arrangements and potential savings will vary.
More Practical UK Money-Saving Guides
At First Steps Guides, we share useful information to help UK households spend less and make informed everyday decisions.
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