The Produce Report – November 2026

The November Produce Report: What's in Season and What to Expect This Winter

As we move into November, seasonal produce begins to shift towards heartier winter ingredients, with brassicas, root vegetables and Mediterranean citrus taking centre stage. This month brings a number of changes to produce availability, including the transition from UK and Dutch-grown crops to Spanish supply. With changing origins, pack sizes and weather-related challenges affecting the market, it's important to stay informed and make the most of what's in season.

Here's what to look out for across fruit, vegetables and the wider produce market this November.

Fruit: Seasonal Favourites and New Citrus Arrivals

November sees the continued transition into the Mediterranean citrus season, with Spanish-grown produce becoming increasingly available across key lines. This brings plenty of opportunities to introduce fresh, vibrant flavours to winter menus, from citrus-led desserts and dressings to accompaniments for fish and meat dishes.

British Apples and Pears

British apples remain a reliable seasonal choice, offering versatility across desserts, cheeseboards and fresh fruit selections.

Pears are also a great addition to November menus. Conference, William's and Comice varieties are all available at this time of year, making them ideal for seasonal desserts and savoury dishes alike.

Citrus: The Mediterranean Season Begins

As Spanish citrus supply builds, chefs can start making the most of the fresh flavours and versatility these fruits bring to winter cooking.

Think beyond traditional desserts and garnishes, incorporating citrus into dressings, marinades and accompaniments to complement a variety of seasonal dishes.

Pomegranates and Cranberries

Pomegranates remain in peak season throughout November and into the festive period. Their jewel-like seeds bring vibrant colour, freshness and a sharp-sweet contrast to roasted vegetables, desserts and richer meat dishes.

We're also hopeful for good-quality cranberries this season. While traditionally associated with Christmas sauce, cranberries offer plenty of potential beyond the classic accompaniment. Consider incorporating them into chutneys, compotes, desserts and even cocktails.

Other Fruit Availability Updates

As we move out of autumn, some imported fig seasons are beginning to come to an end.

The Spanish peach and nectarine season has also now finished, so it's worth keeping these seasonal changes in mind when planning menus and ordering produce.

Vegetables: What's Changing This November?

Winter vegetables are beginning to take centre stage, with several important changes to availability and supply to keep on your radar.

Broccoli: Moving to Spanish Supply

Next week, we will be moving from UK broccoli in 4.5kg packs to Spanish broccoli in 6kg packs.

Please be aware of this change in both origin and pack size when placing your orders.

Brussels Sprouts: Getting Ready for Christmas

As we approach the festive season, fresh Brussels sprouts are firmly in the spotlight.

Prepared sprouts are expected to become more widely available from mid-November, although they will not be a regular stock line until then.

January King Cabbage Returns

January King cabbage is back in stock! With its distinctive colouring and robust leaves, it's a great addition to winter menus.

Its versatility makes it ideal for seasonal sides, hearty braises and warming vegetable dishes.

Tenderstem Broccoli

Heat stress has affected some plant growth this season, resulting in shorter Tenderstem broccoli stems than you might typically expect.

This is one of several examples of how growing conditions are influencing the appearance and availability of produce.

Keeping an Eye on Potatoes

Potatoes remain a market to watch following a challenging growing season.

As this year's crop moves into storage, we are expecting further updates on availability. We'll continue to monitor the market and keep customers informed of any changes.

Other Winter Vegetables

Alongside these availability updates, there are plenty of seasonal vegetables to make the most of this month.

Savoy cabbage remains a winter favourite, while kale and cavolo nero offer excellent options for hearty winter menus.

Market Watch: Understanding This Winter's Growing Conditions

Extreme weather has had a significant impact on crops throughout the year. From scorching summer temperatures to torrential rainfall, challenging conditions have affected growing seasons across the UK and beyond.

These weather extremes can influence crop yields, quality, size and overall availability. As a result, some of the produce arriving may look a little different or prove more challenging to source than usual.

As we move further into winter, we'll continue to monitor market conditions and work closely with our suppliers to keep customers informed of any changes that could affect their orders.

Flexibility Is Key This Winter

With availability changing across certain produce lines, being open to seasonal swaps can help keep menus on track.

Considering alternative root vegetables, exploring different varieties and making the most of what's currently in season can help maintain menu variety, manage costs and keep dishes appealing.

Alternatives Worth Considering

Celeriac

Celeriac is an ingredient worth making more of this winter. Its earthy flavour works beautifully roasted, mashed or puréed, and it can be incorporated into soups, gratins and seasonal sides.

Carrots and Swede

Carrots and swede are versatile winter staples that can bring plenty to the menu. From root vegetable mashes and roasted sides to warming soups and hearty winter dishes, they offer reliable options for colder-weather cooking.

In Season and On the Menu: Making the Most of November Produce

November is the perfect time to embrace winter's colour, variety and flavour. Brassicas and winter greens are particularly well placed to take centre stage, offering chefs plenty of opportunities to create interesting seasonal dishes.

Brassicas Take Centre Stage

Brussels sprouts, January King cabbage, kale and broccoli are all versatile ingredients that can work far beyond the traditional side dish.

Whether used in sharing plates, seasonal specials or hearty vegetarian mains, these winter staples offer plenty of scope for creativity.

Seasonal Menu Inspiration

Looking for ways to make more of November's produce? Here are a few ideas to inspire your winter menus:

• Roast Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon, chestnuts and a drizzle of honey.
• Charred kale with garlic and lemon for a simple but flavourful seasonal side.
• January King cabbage shredded into a crunchy winter slaw or slowly braised with warming spices.

Make the Most of Seasonal Classics

With Christmas approaching, now is a great time to review your winter menus and make the most of reliable, versatile produce.

From premium seasonal sides to everyday menu staples, choosing ingredients that offer flexibility can help you create appealing dishes throughout the colder months.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect

As November progresses, we expect further changes in produce origins and availability as the Spanish season continues to develop.

It's worth keeping an eye on changing pack sizes, product substitutions and seasonal availability to help keep your menus running smoothly.

For the latest availability updates, product recommendations or support with planning your next menu, speak to your Arthur David Account Manager.

At Arthur David, we're here to keep you informed, help you make the most of what's in season and ensure you have the produce you need for every menu.