Laura’s top tips:

Time your trip

Aim to get to the supermarket two to three hours before closing time, as that’s when you’re most likely to find a good supply of reduced items. Get into the habit of checking the reduced aisle whenever you shop.

Just ask

Don’t be afraid to ask staff when final reductions will be made. They’ll often tell you.You may see people lurking around the reduced aisle, which is a good sign.

Try something different

There’s no point going shopping for reduced food with a list – you’re unlikely to find what you want. Be adventurous and buy whatever’s on offer.You can google a recipe later.

Use judgement

Best-before dates aren’t related to safety, they’re just saying when food is at its best. Use your senses to do a sniff test and look at textures. We rely on businesses to tell us what is OK but we used to survive without being told when we couldn’t eat something.

Prolong food life

Use-by dates are based on food safety but that pint of milk isn’t going to go off at the stroke of midnight on its use-by date. Put food that needs using at the front of the fridge and prolong its life by freezing or batch cooking.

Share the love

My friends and family were very sceptical when I started my new way of life but they all love it now and also use the apps. If there’s something available that you don’t want, maybe someone you know would like it. It’s great for building community spirit.

Peel appeal

Don’t throw away peelings. Use veg peel to make stocks and soups. Sprinkle on oil and bake peelings, such as mango, in the oven to make delicious chips.

Download apps

There are more and more apps appearing now.You can use them all over the country and internationally. Make sure your notifications are on so you know when something is listed.

For more of Laura’s tips, follow her on Instagram @reduction_ raider1 and listen to her Alright Raiders podcast on Spotify