New EU regulations stipulating the classification of leeks according to size and proportions have raised temperatures at UK organic pressure group the Soil Association.
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Since 1 March, all leeks on sale in the EU have been divided into two classes. Size is now determined by the diameter of the leek above the swelling of its neck; the white/ greenish part of the vegetable must meanwhile be at least 30% of its total length.
The Soil Association has criticised the guidelines, a spokeswoman telling FoodFen: “A quality, good-tasting piece of vegetable can come in all shapes and sizes and have blemishes which don’t affect its eating quality.
“The public should be looking out for taste and quality and not be swayed by seeing rows and rows of leeks that all look the same.”
