And prices for the domestic product are low, lower than cost, according to some sources.

'We imported double the amount last year that we are importing at the moment,' said Simon Lane of import specialist Fruco. The company is supplying Portuguese carrots and expects to have French product available from May 12, depending on product maturity. The peak period for French supplies on the UK market is from mid-May to the end of June. 'We are not in a rush to start, however, as we have Portuguese supplies from the Lisbon area that are packed under the same brand by our French supplier,' Lane said. 'But we're in for a tough, competitive season again this year.' The start of the French season in the UK is often dependent on availability of old season product from Scotland and the UK has been able to supply carrots year round for several years. But most customers still switch into imports at the end of the spring in order to guaranteee top quality for consumers. Keeping quality is likely to become more questionable as the UK season wears on.

Supermarkets such as Asda for example, have made it clear this season that they are championing the UK cause and opting out of imports to stay with English and Scottish supplies, but quality may become an issue.

This season, seed density at planting has been greater in Scotland leading to more roots in the ground, but samples are being lifted smaller in some cases which could put a question mark over late-season quality.

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