The mushroom industry has certainly responded since the days when flats, opens, cups and buttons were the only choice on the shelves, and there is continuing evidence in UK stores that the range and source has spread worldwide.

Enoki are now firmly in place and have been joined at Morrisons by a golden edition from Leicester-based Livesey Brothers at £1.80 for 150g.

Full marks too for a detailed description on the pack which makes the point they were known in the wild in the UK as Velvet Shank, before extensive cultivation in the Far East.

Eastern Europe is still coming forward with mini newcomers Mousserons from Bulgaria at £1.70 for 100g, described as “chewy” at Morrisons and also available from Tesco as Wild Mushrooms at 70p less for the same weight.

The collective term for various flora and fauna is well known, but Waitrose has extended the boundaries to describe its red garlic when sold in strings. Sourced from Spain at £3.49 for seven bulbs, there is no missing the description on the label for a “grappe”.

Asda continues to flag up new varieties, and is now selecting Jamaica. In this instance it is a twin pack of ready-to-eat solo papayas at £2.47. This fruit features in fresh cut as a blended juice, making the point that this sector often merges into other areas.

Marks & Spencer has developed what it has christened a “Fruit Shaker” for those who want to consume it on the hoof, or take it to a picnic. The product consists of melon, mango, pineapple, grapes and strawberries.

Another arrival that could find its way into the outdoor meal segment are Tesco’s Meli Melo tomatoes, presented in a “Sharing Bowl” at £2.50 for 500g. -

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