BEIJING, March 18 -- Chinese authorities have issued a detailed circular calling on government officials and the public to fight against widespread food waste.

With a large population and limited land resources, China has been facing a tight food supply-demand balance for a long period of time, but food waste remains rampant due to ostentatious lifestyles and lack of supervision, according to the circular.

The circular was issued by the General Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the General Office of the State Council.

The document focuses on measures prohibiting too much money being spent on food among officials.

Officials are told to control the amount they spend on dinners in public affairs, and promote simple, healthy and economical dining.

Government departments, organizations and state-owned enterprises must publicize the amount they spend on dining for public supervision, according to the circular.

"Authorities are not allowed to organize banquets or guzzle under the name of convening meetings and training," it said.