The popularity of easy peelers has led to clementines being given a number of makeovers, with Marks & Spencer offering a brightly printed 1kg carton of Spanish Nadorcott clementines. Previously, such products were mainly associated with Christmas.

On the same route away from 25 December is the fact that more easy peelers are appearing complete with leaves - a retail habit that I was told originated in France. Waitrose has had a bulk pack from Spain for some time at £3.29 for 800g, while Tesco has now joined the battle with a new presentation of ClemenGold at £1.99 for 500g.

As an aside, I remember when Mozambique used to export citrus to the UK, mainly through the Outspan organisation. This fruit may have disappeared from view, but the country is now providing Sainsbury’s with bird’s eye chillies, priced at 77p for 20g.

There are, however, some items that most people will admit are not ideal when it comes to enhancing their attractiveness on the packaging front. Coconuts are a case in point, although there was a time when they were wrapped in clingfilm to keep the spiky coir from getting into the rest of the shopping. Nowadays, however, the trend seems to be towards au naturel - but having seen an episode in the last series of The Restaurant in which two contestants tried to break open the nut with a knife, it is clear that coconuts are difficult to handle. Full credit then to Asda in its prepared range, for providing chopped-up chunks at £1 for 120g.

Through some skillful marketing, celeriac - another line with an unsightly exterior - has enjoyed success as the Ugly One. However, a rival has emerged. Fanged roots of horseradish sold loose in Sainsbury’s for £3.85 come a close second.

Further signs that spring is in the air are also evident, with the first Jersey new potatoes being lifted from the ground. Tesco is offering an upgraded sealed bag printed in purple from the Jersey Royal Company, also carrying the Protected Designation of Origin logo, at £2.99 for 330g. A new definition also seems to have crept in for, while I have always been aware of mids and ware, the product is referred to as Royal Pearl.

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