STRAWBERRIES — TWO WEEKS

BRITAIN’S favourite soft fruit, strawberries, are also highly perishable. Modern production techniques, including the use of LED lights to mimic sunlight, have extended the domestic growing season from just six weeks 25 years ago to six months today. Imports from Spain, Morocco and Egypt fill the seasonal gaps.

Once picked, strawberries can develop grey mould if they are kept too warm. They are best picked in the early morning, then their temperature is reduced to 1c by forcing cooled air through vents in the packaging. ‘Modified atmosphere’ packaging can also extend their life.

The most popular import is the fleshy Elsanta, known for its hardiness, but not its flavour. Seasonal strawberries usually taste best: last year Marks & Spencer’s Sallybright variety won rave reviews.