Marks & Spencer, which dropped organic fruit and vegetables five years ago, is to bring them back in response to customer demand, it was announced yesterday.

Initially only seven products, all from overseas, will be available in stores around London. But the chain said it was looking to expand the range, increase the number of outlets, and encourage more UK farmers to go organic to meet demand. The launch products will be sold at premium prices, including four golden apples for #1.99, four tomatoes for #1.69 and a red pepper for #1.29. The other lines are red apples, avocados, baby tomatoes and potatoes. Marks & Spencer plans to encourage organic production at home by holding an information day for its UK suppliers.