M&S shoppers are baffled by fruit that ‘tastes like pineapple’ but isn’t

SHOPPERS are disappointed with one Marks & Spencer fruit that “tastes like pineapple” – except it isn’t one.

The controversial fruit has caused a stir among foodies, who were less than impressed.

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The major retailer offers its own brand ‘White Pearl Strawberries’.

The small treats became popular among sweet lovers after their launch last year.

The strawberries are white with red seeds both inside and out.

M&S described them as “sweet like a red strawberry, with an aroma of pineapple and notes of vanilla”.

But the bold combination has disappointed some foodies.

One savvy shopper took to Facebook to express her frustration after purchasing a box from the fruit and vegetable isle.

She posted: “Not a bargain, but don’t waste your money money On this, absolutely tasteless, should taste like pineapple with a hint of vanilla, and taste like unripened strawberries for £3.50.”

The posted has received thousands of likes from fellow shoppers – with many sharing similar thoughts.

One user said: “Pineapple flavor…no flavor. And they taste very subtly of vanilla and strawberry.”

Another added: “Why would you buy strawberries that taste like pineapple! Buy a pineapple, absolutely ridiculous.”

A third wrote: “They are the blandest strawberries I have ever tried.”

However, others disagreed and said they liked the new flavor.

One satisfied user said: “I actually really liked them, the flavor was subtle. But I liked them. Try them for yourself before you write them off.”

M&S previously claimed the fruit had been naturally grown and developed in Japan.

According to the supermarket chain, manufacturers used seeds from Japanese white strawberries crossed with traditional strawberries.

The retailer describes the flavor as follows: “These aren’t just any strawberries… these are New Collection White Pearl M&S strawberries!

“These beautiful berries have a white base color even when perfectly ripe, making them look like typical strawberries in reverse!

“They are sweet like red strawberries, with notes of pineapple and vanilla. Find them now in the Foodhall.”

The fruit is part of a new range of fresh products with unique flavors, including cotton candy grapes and baby kiwi berries.

The strange-sounding fruit gets its unusual flavor from the developing method, but is not infused with artificial flavors.

All three grape varieties are grown in Spain, but cotton candy is also grown in Brazil and South Africa depending on the time of year.

Marks & Spencer has been contacted for comment.

It comes as an M&S worker revealed there are secret “J codes” that guarantee discounts on fruit and vegetables.

After working as night assistants at M&S, they revealed the posh supermarket has a secret code they use when making discounts.

For those looking for a bargain, look for the pre-packaged products as this is where you’ll find the biggest savings, the insider said.