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Tue, 11 Aug 2026

Tue, 11 Aug 2026 Sun-tanned cauliflowers and knobbly spuds - the heatwave veg that's good to eat

British shoppers should expect to see more wonky vegetables due to repeated heatwaves.
UK farmers are facing one of their toughest seasons due to extreme heat and drought, leading to predictions of the worst harvest in decades. As temperatures soar, crops are being affected not only by reduced yields but also by unusual shapes and colors. Retailers have traditionally rejected fruit and vegetables that don't meet strict guidelines on size, shape, and color. However, with supplies under pressure, many are expected to loosen these rules rather than risk empty shelves. This means shoppers may soon see smaller, wonkier, or oddly colored veg in stores - including cauliflowers turned yellow by excessive sunlight, curved cucumbers, and potatoes with multiple "knobbly" sections. Experts say that despite their unusual appearance, these vegetables are still safe to eat. Growers are reporting depleted water reserves, leading to slower growth rates and shorter supplies of cauliflower, broccoli, and other brassicas. With supermarkets reluctant to discard imperfect produce, they may start stocking wonky veg in the coming weeks. Many farmers are already struggling to cope with pests thriving in hot conditions, reduced pesticide use, and increased waste due to supermarkets' strict cosmetic standards. In an effort to reduce waste and support British growers, some supermarkets have launched "imperfect veg" lines. However, with imports rising as UK supplies dwindle, the long-term implications of this season's extreme weather are likely to be felt for months to come.