A Recent Survey, by Samsung Digital Appliances, has shown that a whopping 82percent of Brits dont know how to correctly utilise their fridges. The electronics giant, in collaboration with the Love Food, Hate Waste campaign, conducted a survey which involved almost 2,000 people to arrive at the shock result. Despite modern fridges now having special compartments to extend the life of many food items, the survey showed that the average person in the UK throws away 7percent of the food they buy each week, at a cost of 572 each year. The reason for this incredible amount of waste is due, in part, to confusing labelling on food products. Many shoppers fail to understand the difference between use by and best before dates. Put simply, a product should not be eaten after its use by date, however, if stored correctly, many items may still be useable for a considerable period after their best before date. The other main culprit when it comes to food wastage is over-buying. Many people purchase far more items than they could possibly use in a week. Planning ahead, and making the most of your freezer, can help ensure that you do not fall into that trap. Food wastage is a huge issue in the UK and something that every household contributes to, which this study clearly shows, said Lana Sanleandro, head of marketing, for Samsung home appliances. Its also something that everyone can do something about, whether that be through better management of the weekly shop, more preparation when making meals and simply by learning about the best conditions to store different sorts of foods. There are a number of everyday products which few of those who took the survey were aware you could freeze, eggs for example may be frozen if removed from their shell, wine keeps for up to three months in the freezer, and nuts for up to six. Most hard cheeses can also be frozen, however its best to search the internet for further advice, as instructions for different cheeses vary considerably. Head of Love Food Hate Waste Emma Marsh concluded There are simple steps we can all take to cut food waste, such as making better use of our fridges and freezers, so were very pleased to be supporting Samsung in helping its customers to waste less food. If you would like further tips on how to how to make the most of your food, the Love Food, Hate Waste website is full of money saving recipes, hints and tips.