Wasteful labels reach sell-by date

Food packaging should now only carry “use by” or “best before” dates.

The “sell by” and “display until” labels currently also used by supermarkets will be removed to avoid confusion for shoppers.

“Use by” labels should only be used where the food could be unsafe to eat after that date.

The “best before” dates should also make it clear that the product is no longer at its best but is still safe to consume, the advice states.

Foods likely to require a “use by” date include soft cheese, smoked fish and ready meals, while biscuits, jams, pickles, crisps and tinned foods will only need a ‘best before’ label.