It’s the time of year when potato suppliers need the best of their skills, as the European new crop competes with the old. Jersey Royals are coming onto the shelves after a late start, which may account for the presence of lesser-known French Exquisa, at 99p a kg in Morrisons, writes David Shapley.

Potatoes generally are not the most attractive of products to display, so I was intrigued by the packs being sold in Morrisons at 99p, supplied by Bartlett’s under the Rooster brand. It’s one of the few times when the prepack carries a full colour picture, and is most attractive.

Meanwhile, on the vegetable trail it is also the time of year when the Mediterranean is handing over to our own growers. In the constant search to say something appealing, Morrisons has hit on the term "Freshly Harvested" complete with Union Jack for cauliflower at 59p. And while Savoy cabbage is grown in Spain, Portuguese at 78p a head is from a less likely source.

Portugal is best known probably for its Rocha pears, which have become a standard line with most multiples. In fact, I was always under the impression that the variety was unique to the Portuguese. To prove me wrong though, there are some excellent organic prepacks (4 for £1.99) in Marks & Spencer, and they were sourced from Argentina.

M&S made Tenderstem broccoli its own several years ago, and the latest arrivals from Kenya (200g for £1.79) carry a roundel proclaiming "As seen on TV", referring to when it was featured alongside chicken, Chardonnay and chocolate pudding in an advert as the chain launched its Easter campaign a few weeks back.

While the arrival of the first English asparagus is quite rightly being trumpeted, there were still alternatives on the shelves last week. In Tesco, Peru and Thailand are still supported by Guatemala, which reflects that the world is the buyers' oyster when it comes to sourcing.

Another relative newcomer is Pak Choi from Tanzania (200g for £1.12), and Argentina popped its head up again with organic butternut squash at 72p a lb. To reinforce the point about supply, Australian sprouts are back, alongside leeks grown in South Africa.

Spring is also a time when salads really get moving, and at Sainsbury’s amongst the almost endless selection of prepared prepacked salad is a growing example. The Living Salads (£1.49) are small growing plants supplied by Home Harvest of Yorkshire, as reported in last week’s Journal. The selection consists of Red Chard, Baby Pak Choi, Tatsoi and the unusual Golden Streaks. Open to the air and protected by a clear sleeve, it looks more suitable for planting than eating.

And finally, one of the most confident claims concerning US Pink Lady (at 2.19 kg) appeared on prepacks. "A fantastic taste or your money back" linked for a Buy Two for One offer. What intrigues me if any are returned is how does one of our leading retailers define disappointment - as distinct from skin finish or texture.

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