Celebrity chef James Martin and metal food packaging association Canned Food UK have developed a range of recipes to help promote the benefits of buying tinned food.

The 20 recipes are divided into five categories to help suit different consumer needs such as health, price or convenience.

Martin said tinned food was a "permanent fixture on our shopping lists" because they were quick and easy to use as well as a "sound environmental choice" due to their recyclability.

"Canned food like fruit and vegetables are picked at their prime and cooked immediately in the can, meaning that all their nutrients are retained and don't deteriorate over time," he added.

The categories are: Good Value, Convenience, Nutrition, 5-a-day and Balanced Lifestyle.

Canned Food also highlighted a survey by researchers TNS Worldpanel that showed a 7% increase in tinned food sales over the past year to some £1.85bn worldwide.

Steve Thomas, chairman of Canned Food UK, said: "The introduction of new food products and innovation within metal packaging is evidence of how the category is reflecting the ever changing consumer needs and perceptions."

The recipes and further information can be obtained via the Canned Food website by clicking here.