Groceries Low-down

christaitfife

Hello! I find it really interesting reading all the posts (here and elsewhere) regarding quality of produce. I have worked in the food production industry for longer than I would like to admit and would like to share a few things. Please remember that these are from experience only and no reflection on individual producers and supermarkets.

1. "You get better quality in high-end retailers" (eg. M&S, Waitrose etc)
This is partially true and partially false. Generally a standard product such as veg, fish, meat etc. is the same at all supermarket, what does change is the specification requested by the supermarket. This can be things such as the cut of meat, the look of the product or the 'straight-ness' of the veg.
High-end retailers may be more fussy when it comes to the origin of the product, but in many cases packing plants will pack for many retailers and in many cases only change the packaging from a discounter to a high-end retailer.

2. "Always look for the longest date - it will last longer"
Again, this is partially true - but not something I would do. It is sometimes the case that multiple 'expiry dates' are packed on the same day with the same product. Therefore it may be the case that a longer expiry date means that it has been in storage longer than the product with the sooner expiry date.
I avoid looking at dates on everything except dairy. I pick the one that looks and feels freshest!

3. "Pre-packed/ prepared veg is a waste of money."
This one depends. Thing about how much you need and will use. For me, it often works out cheaper to buy diced veg than a whole one - as I would end up throwing too much out.

4. "Fresh produce is better quality than Frozen"
Again, this one depends. It depends on the product - things like peas, fish, some meat etc. will generally be freshest if frozen. Have a look at packaging of 'fresh' produce - you may be surprised just how much had been previously frozen and then defrosted to make it appear to look fresh.

5. "Veg in the UK is overpriced"
It's not - we have some of the lowest priced veg in Europe.

6. "I only buy seasonal produce/ British Produce"
You likely don't. To maintain supply, almost all suppliers source product from around Europe and the world. Carrots - a typical 'British' product can be sourced from as far afield as Israel. This is the only way to maintain year-round supply.

7. "I only eat fresh produce"
Again, you likely don't. Some veg can be as old as a year before it hits the supermarket shelves - Sweet Potatoes are the best example. Carrots may be 6 months old.

8. "There are certain things you cant eat"
Of course this is true. However, I am sure you are either giving yourself extra work or throwing things away for no point.
Do you peel butternut? You shouldn't. The skin is edible, and quite tender when cooked. it is a great source of nutrients too. The bonus of not peeling it is that it is quicker and you are less likely to loose your fingers!
Broccoli stalks are also great to blitz in a food processor and mix with stews, soups and pastas too - it is a great source of fibre and you don't even notice it is there.

These are just a few of my views, if you have any further examples - feel free to add them.

Ken68

Thanks Chr....useful post, didn't know that about Butternut Squash,
Thought at first your post was about shelf position...reminded of when visiting a M&S Food Hall a few years ago....the bottom shelf was the actual floor ,so got on my knees to check ...........and then Security came. lol