In ancient times, our ancestors ate significantly more fruit and vegetables than we do today. Not only that, the varieties they consumed offered greater nutritional value with a wider range of fibre and antioxidants. Scientists have therefore started a project to identify ancient strains of nutrient-rich mango, apples, bananas, onions and tea leaves. This underlines the fact that modern crops are bred more for yield, consistent appearance and resistance to weather and disease, rather than for flavour and nutrient potential. So, if you have an old-fashioned strain of onion or apple growing in your garden, count yourself lucky!