The warm weather in the UK has led to an early harvest of various fruits and vegetables, including the superfood aubergine. The dry, warm conditions have also resulted in an early yield for strawberries and tomatoes.
The unprecedented warmth in May, with temperatures reaching up to 29.3C, has accelerated the growth of different crops, eliminating the usual “hungry gap.”
Nick Haigh, a grower at the Community Farm near Bristol, mentioned to the Guardian how Mediterranean vegetables have arrived earlier than anticipated.
READ MORE: Major Crash Causes Lane Closures and Traffic Delays on M5
READ MORE: Managing Heartburn: Tips on Foods and Avoidance
He stated, “It feels like it’s the middle of May already. We have loads of crops right now - tomatoes, aubergines, cucumbers, peppers - all ready two or three weeks early. We are crazy busy. A few months ago we thought it would be the worst hungry gap ever. Now we are saying there is not going to be a hungry gap.”
Healthline notes that aubergines, technically a fruit, are high in antioxidants, providing a good source of vitamins such as B1, B6, and K, along with folate and copper. Research indicates that aubergines could potentially aid in regulating blood sugar levels and help reduce “bad” cholesterol due to their high fibre content and antioxidant properties.
Aubergines may also possess properties that combat cancer cells. A diet rich in plant foods has been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers, and including aubergines can assist in managing weight due to its high fibre and low-calorie content.