As announced in February, WRAP is currently working with UK Governments and the Food Standards Agency (FSA) to update industry guidance on the application of on-pack date and related advice (storage and freezing guidance).

This guidance aims to assist further reductions in food waste at home and remove key barriers to redistribution. The guidance will cover:

• What the different date labels mean, and how best to decide which date to apply in relation to curtailing food waste (and the consequences of this decision)
• The importance of maximising both ‘closed’ and ‘open’ life, whilst ensuring quality and safety are maintained
• The importance of correct storage guidance, including fridge temperature and freezing advice
• What can (and cannot) be done as the date approaches / is passed (for sale / redistribution)

A draft of the updated guidance is now available for review and comment until August 3rd 2017. WRAP is also directly consulting with food businesses, trade bodies, redistribution organisations and others, including through various Courtauld Commitment 2025 Working Groups. We expect to publish the completed guidance later in 2017. Environment Minister, Thérèse Coffey said:“The food and catering industries have made strong progress in reducing household food waste by a million tonnes since 2007, but there is still a way to go. We know that confusing labels can contribute to food waste by suggesting items need to be thrown away sooner than is necessary, which is why this new guidance will make packaging much clearer for people as they do their weekly shop.”