Whether you live in an urban and rural environment you can discover many free foods that are waiting just beyond your doorstep. Wild foods may seem strange or exotic but it's worth remembering that all the unprocessed foods that are in the supermarkets were once wild as well.

General information on wild foods can be found through a variety of sources. You're likely to find book pertaining to your local area right in your local library. Some communities have courses that you can take. The older indigenous people in your area are also likely to know about the local wild foods. Avoid simply trying wild plants and plant products as many are very poisonous. One of the most poisonous berries can kill an adult who has eaten as few of five berries.

The first wild foods that most people think of are berries that grow locally to your area. If you're not sure what berries are around area, ask around a little and you're sure to get a quick education. Blackberries, blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, service berries (aka saskatoon berries), choke cherries, pin cherries, rose hips and crab apples are common in many areas of North America.

Nuts can also be found in the wild in many areas. You simply need to know what is in your area and then make a good effort to beat the squirrels to the harvest.

Greens will be in abundance in any area that you may live, with the possible exception of the desert. Dandelions, lambs quarters, purslane, chickweed, nettles and plantain are all common, tasty weeds that you may be able to find right in your backyard.

Bulbs and tubers are another source of good food. Cat tail roots are tasty. Dandelion roots can be easily roasted into a very good coffee substitute. Wild onions, garlic and carrots are not terribly difficult to find.

Mushroom hunting is enjoyed by many people. As most people know, many mushrooms are poisonous but many are not and are quite good. The common wisdom about mushrooms is to learn from someone that already knows mushrooms. Many mushrooms are quite similar so books many not provide enough understanding to avoid poisonous varieties.

Another area to explore is local hunting and fishing. Licence costs may make either of these activities unfrugal but if it's something that you enjoy and can make do often enough to bring a return for your licence costs than it's worth considering.