Drought, then rain turn produce 'wonky'

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LONDON, Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Poor weather, one of the driest Marches and the wettest June ever has turned British produce "wonky" or misshapen, but officials say it tastes the same.

Judith Batchelar, director of food at the grocery chain Sainsbury's, said the European Union's rules on "misshapen" fruit and vegetables were relaxed in 2009, The Daily Telegraph reported.

However, many supermarkets have maintained private product standards so apples with the odd blemish are often rejected and produce in non-traditional shapes were often left out of stores, although they don't affect flavor or nutrition, Batchelar said.

"We've taken the decision to radically change our approach to buying British fruit and vegetables as a result of this year's unseasonal weather," Batchelar told the Telegraph. "The unpredictable weather this season has left growers with bumper crops of ugly-looking fruit and vegetables with reported increases in blemishes and scarring, as well as shortages due to later crops. We've committed to make use of all fruit and veg that meets regulation and stands up on taste, and hope customers will help us all make the most of the British crop in spite of its sometimes unusual appearance."