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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
World
William Mata

Lidl set to sell wonky fruit and veg to help farmers through drought crisis

Lidl’s Good to Give trustmark aims to help shoppers donate quality items to food banks

(Picture: PA Archive)

Lidl is set to sell misshapen and wonky fruit and vegetables as a way of supporting farmers affected by drought.

Instead of rejecting stunted goods, the supermarket is looking to not waste products and has called on other chains to do the same, the Times reported.

The supermarket say this will allow farmers to earn a living despite a below-average yield in a dry summer.

Ryan McDonnell, the chief executive of Lidl GB, said: “Farmers across the country are facing a big challenge this year due to the extreme weather conditions experienced over the summer months.

“Whilst the crop coming out may look and feel a bit different to what we’re all used to, it’s still the same great British quality.”

Potatoes, onions, carrots, apples and sprouts could be sold in all shapes and sizes as part of the change, which follows the National Farmers’ Union asking shops to be considerate.

David Exwood, vice-president of the NFU, said: “Vegetables are no more wonky this year but with a smaller total crop we should make the best of every bit that is available.

“Everyone wants to see less food waste, so give the customers the choice this year . . . let’s look at a slightly different specification.”

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