99.3% of the UK population (26.2 million households) now buy into the canned goods market, with its popularity exceeding that of other food markets, including the frozen, cheese, milk, bread, alcohol and fresh meat markets.
Approximately 1.3 billion kilograms of goods were sold during 2013, with each household in the UK spending an average of £90.80 on canned goods in a year, which is more than they do on fresh beef (£89.01) and cooked meats (£88.08).
Jason Hegarty, chairman for Canned Food UK, said: “The annual figures show that canned food continues to play an important role in cooking in the majority of UK households, and that’s why Canned Food Week is so important to us. Canned food clearly presents an affordable option, with convenience and nutrition playing an important role, too.”
Annual figures show that the largest canned food market is fish, which accounts for 22.3% of the total spend, while canned fruit and prepared peas and beans also performed ahead of the market.
Work and lifestyle pressures mean consumers have less time to spend in the kitchen, so the likes of canned fish, fruit and beans are ideal, as they require no preparation and are ready to eat straight from the can.
“Our main challenge is to make canned food a preference to the average consumer, highlighting its nutritional value,” said Hegarty. “Canned Food Week is the perfect way to educate consumers on the nutritional benefits of canned food, while showcasing the great, affordable meals that can be made from simple store cupboard ingredients.”
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