One counter case, however, is pink, or rather red varieties, which exude sweetness. There was a time when red- fleshed grapefruit could always command a premium on the wholesale market.

The Floridians started spending substantial advertising budgets, and the consumer substituted the term pink for red, although this covered a number of shades.

Not to be outdone, Mediterranean producers followed suit, although some of the varieties were visually more complex. While they were certainly pigmented, the odd one reverted to the point where the flesh went grey because ñ I was always told ñ it was left on the tree too long. Added to this, fruit could suffer from sunburn, and it was also referred to as “blushed” by the trade.

The decision by Sainsbury's therefore, to sell grapefruit (£1.19 per pack) under the blushed description, seems like turning back the clock.

Full marks however for trying to tempt the customer to try something new. You don't often see longans on the shelf either (99p reduced), and indeed not many people really know what they are. Some useful in pack information helps ñ it's all part of a drip feed unless TV chefs such as Delia or Jamie light the blue touch paper.

Something far better known UK producers have had one of the best seasons on record. One of the more unusual sources at this time of the year, though, is in Marks & Spencer from Greece at £1.29 for a twin pack.

And if the product although delicious, is hardly the easiest thing to eat, at least the M&S single-portion microwaveable vegetables seems to be doing well. The fact that convenience is king is reflected by the introduction of the latest line ñ beans at 49p.

Meanwhile, Waitrose has gone for nostalgia with a winter celery prepack at 99p, which also proudly carries the name of supplier G's as well as the Leaf marque.

Not many people will remember when earthed-up celery was a major element of the English vegetable business, and “dirty celery” usually packed in old Israel bruce boxes were a common sight. Today, for a short season, it has become a speciality with the attractive sleeve also evoking some emotive memories.

It is also an intriguing time to watch the apple counters. Apart from the traditional Cox, Gala, Braeburn and Russets there are often a few traditional specials that pop up. At the same time there is no shortage of newer names such as Kanzi, grown in Belgium and sold under Tesco's Finest label for £1.99. Apparently it is another highly coloured Gala/Braeburn cross.

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