Canned foods may have lost the power to excite - the maximum rating in key categories is only 39, rising to 45 in canned soups - but that doesn't mean consumers are not interested in new products and ideas.

Many canned products are still relevant in everyday meals, with innovations in recipes and packaging closely scrutinised. But consumer perceptions vary by product type, particularly for meats and carbohydrate-based foods, which are often criticised for their poor quality.

Reflecting this focus, overall scores for canned products correlate with ratings for taste and texture, with texture particularly important in driving overall opinions.

Branston beans is a good example of getting the mix right. Respected brand values in a new context were backed by "soft beans, but with enough bite", and a rich tomato sauce with a touch of extra seasoning to differentiate the offer from the brand leader. Scoring 37 this launch matched the current category maximum, a strong performance in context.

Branston Beans with Sausages SCORE: 29 AVERAGE: 29



"I liked the beans, but not the sausages" typified the response. However, overall results for the product were more positive - almost a third said they would buy monthly or more often.

Campbell's 99% Fat Free Spring Vegetable Soup SCORE: 40 AVERAGE: 33



Health matters today, so 1% fat secured this soup a new category maximum rating. It also tasted good, leading to a top quartile score and increased levels of purchase intention.

Ye Olde Oak Chicken Fajita Filling SCORE: 27 AVERAGE: 25



Canned meats are traditionally greeted with caution, but this surprised on tasting. Acceptable in quality with a good mix of vegetables and an authentic spicy flavour was the verdict.