The food delivery service Deliveroo has added a new payment option for its app, where people can pay for their takeaways in instalments.

Klarna, the buy now, pay later service has been added as an option alongside credit, debit card and PayPal.

Through it people can pay off the cost of their curry, takeaway pizza or fish and chips up to 30 days later or in three equal instalments over 60 days with a minimum spend of £30.

Both of these payment types are interest-free and fee-free according to Klarna's website.

News Shopper: Klarna can split up the cost of a Deliveroo takeaway over 30 or 60 days (PA)Klarna can split up the cost of a Deliveroo takeaway over 30 or 60 days (PA) (Image: PA)

As reported by the Metro, there has been criticism of this option as it could "encourage shoppers to build up unaffordable debt" and through that Klarna could then pass the arrears onto debt collectors.

Missed payments would also show up on a person's credit file, potentially affecting how someone would pay for loans and mortgages.

In response to this personal finance expert, Tara Flynn from the financial comparison site Choosewisely.co.uk said: "If you’re considering buying your takeaway now and paying for it later…don’t. Getting yourself into debt over a meal that’s gone in 15 minutes isn't worth it. 

"Having fast food delivered should be considered a treat for now and again, and if you can’t afford to do it, you shouldn’t. 

"I think it’s irresponsible for Deliveroo to offer this as an option, and need to seriously reconsider this move ASAP".

Deliveroo chief business officer Carlo Mocci said: "Millions of people are already choosing Klarna and we’re giving customers more choice and more flexibility with a safe, secure way to pay online."