EU Lifts “Ugly” Fruit and Vegetable Ban

The European Union has rescinded its ban on some “ugly” fruits and vegetables. AP reports:

The European Union bid adieu Wednesday to rules that have cemented its image as an ivory tower: starting next summer, it will allow the sale of fruit and vegetables that may be crooked, bent or twisted but are fine for consumption.

Seems sensible enough, but, as usual, the EU can only handle so much sanity at any one time. The European Commission actually enumerates the fruits and vegetables to which the ban no longer applies.

They are: apricots, artichokes, asparagus, avocados, beans, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, cherries, zucchinis, cucumbers, cultivated mushrooms, eggplants, garlic, hazelnuts in shell, headed cabbage, leeks, melons, onions, peas, plums, ribbed celery, spinach, walnuts in shell, watermelons and chicory.

“Pretty-food” standards remain for 10 other types — including apples, strawberries and tomatoes — but governments may allow “uglier” versions to be sold if they wish.

The demise of the ban means the EU can shed 100 pages of rules and regulations.

Now watch those remaining rules be repealed some day on the grounds that they constitute “lookism.” (Thanks to Margaret Griffis for the AP link.)