Butternut squash, beetroot and apples are in popular demand at Beacon Foods as it gears up for autumn and winter.

The company says butternut squash has grown in popularity, aided by its superfood status, and it is in popular demand for sandwich fillings, quiches, sauces and vegetable mixes.

Beetroot, also recognised for its health-giving qualities, is a strong feature of the exotic ingredients specialist's autumn and winter offering, and is available roasted and caramelized with balsamic vinegar in a range of cut sizes for products ranging from sandwiches to pot salads.

Apples are also being used for a range of both sweet and savoury products, and the company says it can supply apples sliced or in a variety of cut sizes and in a range of cooking styles, including roasted and caramelized. They are then used as sandwich fillings, sauces, pies, salads and sweets.