Peelable labels on food detailing the cooking instructions may need to be made more prominent following a worldwide warning by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The organisation said it has seen a growing number of cases lately in which consumers have been ignoring the handling instructions on labels for pre-prepared foods.

In one instance, a woman contracted botulism because she ignored the fact that a carton of soup said 'keep refrigerated'.

The FDA has now warned shoppers that it is vital to read peelable labels carefully in order to prevent serious illness and perhaps even death.

It pointed out that even standing instructions on ready meals are important, as this is part of the food's cooking time to ensure it is heated through.

Manufacturers may now come up with ways to make the peelable labels on their packaging more dynamic and noticeable.

Last month, Waste Watch welcomed government proposals to scrap best before dates for food as "long overdue".

Denny Bros Ltd, 26 May 2011