TemaNord Food waste and date labelling

The purpose of the project has been to identify how date labelling legislation on food is practised in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden and how the durability can be affected in the food supply chain. The project recommends enhanced guidance for manufacturers, retailers and consumers. When prolonging the durability of the product, the retail waste decreased significantly. The results show that the type of packaging gas and storage temperature is of great importance for the durability of food products. Consumer studies reveal a need for guidance on how long products may be eaten after opening of the package. The individual consumer needs clearer and more easily accessible information on different labelling, storage temperature and durability of products.