Just when I thought that the mushroom industry had reached a point where any further opportunities to add value through segmentation were difficult to find, I was intrigued that Tesco has come up with a 150g mixed-pack with a difference at £1.39.

The days of simply selling buttons, cups and flats are long gone, and exotic types from as far afield as Bulgaria and China no longer create the level of excitement they once did.

But it’s the first time I have seen what is, in effect, portion control that combines several different types - as distinct from a mix. The permutations now appear once again to be endless.

Grapefruit has again swum into view at Sainsbury's, which is offering nets of three Florida Gold grapefruit at £1.99. While the Sunshine State is best known for its pink varieties I wonder if we are seeing a change in tastes on the way.

The fact that the variety was still the internationally known Marsh Seedless also poses the question as to when anyone will come up with a real alternative. Its been the mainstay for as long as I can remember.

Also in store it was intriguing to see, particularly as it is January, Australian polybags of Sundowner on the shelf. The variety obviously has a storage potential far beyond what was envisaged when it first made its appearance in late summer.

I was also interested to hear from the Mango Association this week that there is real growth within its category. It may account for the fact that JS is also bringing a speciality variety - Kensington Pride - from Australia in a twin-pack, priced at £2.99.

What is equally commendable is that the on-pack literature identifies it as one of the country's major types which has a mouth-watering taste - defined as a mixture of citrus, peach and banana.

There is also a broader swath of information highlighting - and one must assume recommending - other varieties from other sources. Heidi from South Africa gets a plus point, together with Julie from the Caribbean, Maya from Israel, and Shelley - although the source of this particular variety remained a mystery to this shopper.

And finally, while the Journal covered the announcement last week, I was encouraged to see Marks & Spencer's new 5 a Day label on display.

While the national media and government have been hammering on for some time about the dietary value of fruit and veg, it’s in the produce departments that the battle will be won.

Unlike some labels, there is definitely no mistaking the message. The label also offers useful information about what constitutes a portion - which has always been a moot point.

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