Farmers say supermarket rules on how fruit and veg look ‘gone too far’

It is all about looks when it comes to buying fruit and vegetables, but a wonky-looking carrot can taste just as good, according to a major farmers’ group.

The Irish Farmers’ Association wants supermarket chains to relax strict rules on the appearance of fruit and vegetables on supermarket shelves.

Pat Farrell, the IFA’s fresh produce development officer, said more often than not, “unusual looking fruit and vegetables taste even better than those with an appearance that is pleasing to the eye”.

The move by supermarkets to allow only produce that fits appearance criteria is costing farmers millions of euro in lost revenue.

Every year, millions of kilos of vegetables are thrown away or used as animal feed if they are classified as irregular in shape or size.

“In principle, I’m in favour of supermarkets relaxing appearance on the standards of fruit and vegetables,” said Mr Farrell. “The presentation rules are gone too far, especially when there were calls a while back for straight bananas.

“More wonky-looking produce is now being sold as customers realise it is not all about looks. Tonnes of produce is being discarded needlessly by farmers in an effort to meet these appearance specifications.

“So much chemicals are being used in an effort to make the produce look good. Some unusual produce is sold on to catering and the service industries and some of this produce is taken by grocers and supermarkets again at a much reduced price.”

“Farmers involved in this industry receive no grant aid and so they are being hit badly. The public needs to be educated more when it comes to this area.”

Growers are currently at or below the cost of production, leaving no margin for reinvestment or to deal with weather issues.

Tesco Ireland sells irregular-shaped vegetables with potential plans to expand the range of such produce on offer to customers.

A Tesco Ireland spokesperson added: “These wonky veg — mushrooms and carrots — might not win a beauty contest but they are perfect for juicing or autumn stews.

“There is scope for us to add more fruit and vegetables to this wonky veg line in the future but we are trialling the offer first with carrots and mushrooms with a view to expanding the range.

Up to 40% of some crops can be wasted because supermarkets demand that fruit and vegetables meet strict specifications for size and appearance.