CANNED, BOTTLED & FROZEN - Bottled, canned & frozen. Can it?
Bottled, canned and frozen products may seem very varied but, despite their differences, these products share many similarities in terms of convenience, market trends and consumer expectations. Both manufacturers and retailers need to stay up to-date on the ever-changing needs of customers and the economic obstacles they encounter. It is crucial to have an understanding of shopper demographics, while keeping an eye on global trends, and maintain adaptability to swiftly respond to changes in market and consumer behaviour.
The truth behind canning
The South Africa Canned Food market is expected to grow in the upcoming years owing to the increasing urbanisation, busy lifestyles, and rising demand for the convenience of ready-to-eat meals according to a TechSci Research report. “The South Africa Canned Food market stood at USD 120.10 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow USD 198.72 million by 2030 with a CAGR 5.23%.” In 1810, Peter Durand, a British merchant, received the first patent for the idea of preserving food using tin cans. They have since been a staple in households, providing convenience, a long shelf life and affordability. As time changes, consumer habits shift due to economic, environmental and health concerns, it becomes essential to examine the sustainability, demographics, health implications, what drives purchasers and emerging trends.
The advantages of canned foods are numerous
Long shelf life. Canned foods can last for years, reducing food waste and ensuring food security. “Canned food can endure indefinitely – or at least several years past the date on the label,” according to Bryan Quoc Le, Ph.D., food scientist and author. “Generally, high-acid foods (like tomatoes) will maintain their quality for 18 months after the ‘use by’ or ‘sell by’ date. Low-acid items (like meat, beans, and vegetables) will stay at their peak for two to five years.”
Convenience. Easy to store, transport, and prepare, making them ideal for busy lifestyles.
Affordability. Often cheaper than fresh produce and less perishable, making them accessible to lower-income households. The cost of canned vegetables can be as low as 50% of the cost of frozen and 20% of the cost of fresh, with virtually no sacrifices in nutritional quality.
Nutrient retention. Canned foods can be just as nutritious as fresh and frozen foods because canning preserves many nutrients. “The amount of minerals, fat-soluble vitamins, protein, fat and carbohydrate remain relatively unchanged by the process of canning,” Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Availability. Canned goods ensure year-round access to seasonal foods, reducing dependency on fresh supply chains.
Though there are a few disadvantages
Nutritional concerns. According to Healthline, salt, sugar and preservatives are sometimes added during the canning process. This may not be a problem for everyone but, with the move to healthier eating, people are demanding healthier options. The high heat destroys micro organisms and inactivates enzymes to preserve the safety and quality of the food. For example, water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C and many B vitamins. BPA (bisphenol-A) used in can linings may pose health risks, though many manufacturers are moving to BPA-free alternatives.
Taste and texture changes. Some foods lose their original texture and flavour during the canning process.
Environmental Impact. While cans are recyclable,not all end up being recycled, the energy-intensive canning process and waste generation raise sustainability concerns.
Demographics and consumer trends
Urban consumers prefer the convenience of canned foods due to a fast-paced lifestyle, it is much easier to combine canned foods with
fresh foods for a hastily cooked meal. The elderly appreciate the ease of preparation and long storage life. People in the rural areas depend on canned goods where fresh food supply chains are inconsistent, if not non-existent.
Drivers for purchasing canned foods
Economic pressures and rising food prices push consumers towards budget friendly and non-perishable foods. While food security is also becoming important amongst consumers as worries of pandemics, conflicts and natural disasters increase. Consumers in cities and urban areas, with limited storage space opt for more for non-perishable foods.
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