// M&S is replacing use-by with best-before dates on its ‘too good to waste’ milk

// The change comes under the supermarket’s commitment to halve food waste by 2030

M&S has become the latest retailer to drop use-by dates from its ‘too good to waste’ British and organic fresh milk.

The supermarket will replace use-by dates with best before dates under its commitment to halve food waste by 2030 and reach net zero by 2040.

M&S claims to be the first retailer to provide best before dates on fully recyclable milk bottles, with the change set to be rolled out throughout all of its UK shops from this week.

The supermarket’s latest Family Matters Index revealed 72% of families in the UK are trying to reduce their household waste.

Meanwhile, 55% said it was important to them that shops made it easier for them to make more sustainable choices.

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Climate charity WRAP’s director of collaboration and change, Catherine David, said: “Milk is the third most wasted food in the home behind potatoes and bread, with around 490 million pints poured down the drain every year – 18 and a half per household – worth £270 million.

“The main reason is not drinking before the use-by date. By changing its British and organic fresh milk to a best-before date, M&S is instantly helping its customers save money and cut waste by giving them more time to consume the milk they buy.”

“This type of change to labelling is fundamental in helping people reduce household food waste, which currently tops more than 6.6 million tonnes each year across the UK.”

Back in March, M&S revealed it was launching a “bring your own bag” scheme for online orders, to help tackle plastic waste.

Last year, it ditched plastic hangers for underwear in attempts to reduce plastic waste.

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