M&S is exclusively stocking a new King Raspberry in selected stores which, at 7g, is double the fruit’s usual weight.
Also known as the Madonna, it was grown in Britain for the first time this year in Kent. A 125g punnet is selling for £2.49.
Marks & Spencer fruit technologist Emmett Lunny said: “Originally bred in California, this raspberry was grown here to help meet an increasing demand for the fruit.
“The King Raspberry looks and tastes fantastic.
“It can be eaten straight from the punnet as its long stem
makes it ideal for dipping in cream or chocolate.”
Over the past two years, sales of raspberries are up 62%, compared with 34% for strawberries [ACNielsen].
Raspberries’ health benefits, supply chain improvements and their increasing availability all year round are said to be contributing factors.