Aldi 'crop change' sparks major update to fruit in all UK stores

Aldi 'crop change' sparks major update to fruit in all UK stores Shoppers who regularly buy the product may notice a difference this summer Aldi has announced that shoppers can expect a change to one product in stores thanks to a recent update. The supermarket has shared the news with customers today, Thursday, June 11, which will surely delight anyone who regularly buys and enjoys eating the 'sweet' item. Aldi says shoppers can look forward to "sweeter" and "bigger" raspberries this summer. It comes as the popular budget high street supermarket prepares to stock 100% British-grown fruit following the start of the British raspberry season. According to Aldi's berry suppliers, there has been a slight change, as this year's crop is expected to be both sweeter and larger than usual. Suppliers claim that the cooler spring has led to slower ripening and enhanced flavour development. With demand for British berries continuing to soar, Aldi is predicting raspberry sales will rise by 15% year on year after selling 1,900 tonnes between June and September last year. This is the equivalent of almost 12 million punnets. British-grown raspberries are now available in Aldi stores, marking the supermarket’s transition to 100% British-grown fresh raspberries across all UK stores. Aldi says it works closely with British growers to bring shoppers high-quality produce at unbeatable value. Julie Ashfield, Chief Commercial Officer at Aldi UK, said: "We expect our raspberries to taste better than ever this season, showcasing the fantastic quality of British produce available across Aldi stores. We're proud to work with British farmers and growers across the country while helping customers enjoy more great British produce." As part of its continued support for British growers, Aldi has teamed up with farmer and TV personality Harriet Cowan. She is to "champion British-grown fruit and vegetables and encourage shoppers to buy more produce grown in the UK". New research commissioned by Aldi found that while 80% of shoppers say supporting British farmers is important to them. Only 27% actively consider whether fruit and vegetables are grown in Britain when deciding what to buy. It also revealed that many shoppers do not realise that certain vegetables can all be grown in the UK. These incldue cucumbers, courgettes and aubergines. Harriet Cowan said: "I’m passionate about highlighting the brilliant work British farmers do to bring high-quality food to our tables. I’ve loved teaming up with Aldi to learn more about the fruit and veg we grow here in the UK and to shine a light on what’s in season." Are raspberries good for you, and what do they go well with? Raspberries are healthy to eat. They are rich in nutrients, are low in calories, and are loaded with dietary fibre, vitamin C, and protective antioxidants. Their high fibre content and low glycemic index (GI) also help control blood sugar levels. Their sweet and tangy taste makes them a match for many different flavours. For example, they pair well with sweet and creamy options such as dark or white chocolate, vanilla, cream, custard, and yoghurt. They also pair nicely with nuts and grains, such as almonds, oats, hazelnuts, and walnuts. You can enjoy them with citrus and other Fruits, including lemon, peach, nectarine, and other berries. Plus, they work well with savoury food and herbs, like basil, thyme, rosemary, and mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese.