Grocery costs continue to climb, and fresh produce is no exception. Using imperfect summer produce in your meals is a great way to stretch your grocery budget and reduce food waste. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, prices for fresh vegetables are predicted to increase 7.8% in 2026.

Understanding Imperfect Produce

Imperfect, ugly or wonky produce generally refers to fruits and vegetables that are bruised, oversized, oddly shaped, or overabundant. Common imperfections include scuffed squash, bruised peaches, peppers with uneven coloring and bumpy citrus.

Climate variability and climate change often cause imperfections that develop during the growing process. Damage during transportation can also lead to produce being rejected for sale through traditional retail channels. That does not mean the produce is spoiled.

Ways to Use Imperfect Summer Produce

Strawberries are commonly misshapen, but their unusual shape has no impact on flavor or texture. Slightly bruised peaches and nectarines are especially well-suited for baking, smoothies, sauces and infusing fruit flavor in summer pancakes.

Zucchini grows rapidly; it doesn’t take long for it to become overgrown if not harvested promptly. If you have an oversized zucchini, shred it. Zucchini is especially useful in baking because shredded zucchini adds moisture to breads, muffins and brownies.

Imperfect produce offers an easy way to stretch your grocery budget amid rising food prices. Giving bruised, oversized or misshapen fruits and vegetables a chance this summer can also inspire new recipes and reduce unnecessary food waste.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.