Australian consumers can expect to find fruit and vegetables of all shapes and sizes on their local supermarket shelves, following a relaxing of cosmetic produce specifications.

Coles and Woolworths are now accepting fruit and veg with blemishes and variations in size, shape and appearance. While produce may look a little curious, it’s still perfectly fine to eat.

The change in specifications follows last year’s horrific drought, as well as a recent surge in sales, amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

While many people have blamed supermarkets for price-gouging produce, higher prices have been attributed to the drought, which saw crops decimated across the country.

Woolworths’ head of produce Paul Turner told the ABC that they are working with their suppliers to meet the increased demand.

“Our specifications are adaptable so we can respond to the quality, quantity and availability of produce in the market,” Turner said.

“Customers may see some difference in size on some of our fruit and vegetables as we work with our growers to ensure continuity of supply.”

Coles will also sell out-of-spec fruit and vegetables.