A new 'thin skinned' cucumber is being launched to appeal to shoppers seeking convenience. The fruit, which goes into Sainsbury's this month, has a thin translucent skin, is mint green in colour, and is smaller than a conventional cucumber.

The thin skin meant there was no need to peel or cut the cucumber, making it attractive as a snack, said supplier The Greenery. "There is demand for fruit and veg a little different from the norm and we are confident the thin skin cucumber will meet consumer tastes," said Richard Binks, technical manager of The Greenery UK, adding it had a "subtle aroma and refreshing taste".