The guidance was produced in consultation with food manufacturers, supermarkets, trade associations, consumer groups and the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP).

BBC: Scrap food sell-by dates, government urges manufacturers

According to the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), about 362, 000 tonnes of edible food is thrown away every year by retailers.

BBC: Surplus supermarket food scheme opens to feed Hull's poor

According to the advisory body Waste and Resources Action Programme, households can end up binning up to a quarter of their weekly food and drink purchases.

BBC: Clearer food labelling plan 'to bring an end to waste'