A new ‘smart jar’ has been released by Hellmann’s which will tell you if your fridge is too warm - in a bid to reduce food waste.

By using temperature-sensitive ink, the design changes when your fridge is set below 5C to reveal a hidden layer. 

Certain foods such as milk, fruit and vegetables can last up to three days longer in a fridge set below 5C instead of 7C.

Milk is reportedly one of the most wasted food products in your fridge - according to a WRAP report, every day 3.1 million glasses of milk are poured down the sink.

The innovative ‘smart jar’ works as a fridge temperature checker with special ink activating and becoming fully visible when the fridge is below 5C.

The new trial of prototypes with a unique label design from illustrator Ellen Porteus has been announced to mark Food Waste Action Week (March 6-12). 

Rachel Chambers, Senior Marketing Manager of Hellmann’s, said: “We know how important it is to make the most of the food you buy.

“At Hellmann’s, we’re constantly looking to help consumers reduce food waste and save money and think ‘smart jar’ is an innovative way to get people talking about - and solving - this massive problem.”

Hellmann’s partner, WRAP which works to tackle the causes of climate change and food waste has an online tool explaining how to set any brand of the fridge to its correct temperature to help reduce instances of food going to waste.

Catherine David, Director of Collaboration and Change at WRAP, said: “Every year more than 4.5 million tonnes of perfectly good food goes to waste in our homes, which could have been eaten.

“This costs the average family upwards of £700 a year – money none of us can afford to waste.

“Incorrect storage is a key trigger for food going off and getting the fridge temperature right can help food stays fresher for longer.

“I'm delighted WRAP has worked with Hellmann’s on this exciting trial. We need innovations like this pilot jar to help us make simple changes in our lives that will pay dividends.

“Food Waste Action Week is the perfect time to launch this brilliant trial.”