The total UK retail market for kitchenware was valued at £732.5m in 2003. This value remained virtually unchanged from the previous year, rising by just 1.2% on 2002.

Growth was limited by a high level of discounting, particularly in the case of grocery multiples, and by an increase in the volume and quality of reasonably-priced imports. The UK’s favourable trade balance has shrunk in recent years as the volume of imports has increased while exports have decreased. The manufacture of ceramics, a traditional UK industry, is struggling to survive competition from the Far East and Eastern Europe. The entry of eight Eastern European countries with low production costs to the allied free-trade zone of the EU in May 2004 can only put more pressure on an already competitive market for ceramics, glassware and other kitchenware.

For the purposes of this report, the UK market for kitchenware is simplistically divided into the four sectors of cookware, ovenware, utensils, and cleaning and storage, although there is considerable overlap between the cookware and ovenware sectors. The most valuable sector in 2003 was cookware, sales of which accounted for 41.6% of the total kitchenware market.

* Fresh vegetables and fruits should make up the largest part of your healthy foods grocery list. Vegetables and fruits have vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and they are usually low in calories. We all need at least five to nine servings of vegetables and fruits every day to choose a variety of fruits and vegetables that everyone in your family will enjoy.
* Most of your grain and cereal products should be made from whole grains, not from refined flours.This part of your list includes whole grain breads, whole grain pastas, and whole grain breakfast cereals. Whole grains are important for vitamins, minerals, and for fiber, which is often lacking in modern diets. Read labels to look for 100 percent whole grain or 100 percent whole wheat to be sure you are getting whole grain products.
* Your protein and meat choices should consist mostly of fish, poultry and lean meats. Eggs, nuts, seeds and legumes are also good protein choices. Choose fresh and frozen unbreaded meats and fish. Avoid breaded, deep-fried convenience foods that you put in the oven. They are high in fats and sodium.
* Beverages should be kept simple. Water, low fat milk, juices and herbal teas are all good choices. If you choose soft drinks, choose diet sodas and soft drinks to avoid extra sugar.
* Dairy products should include low fat milk, yogurt and cheese. If you do not want cows’ milk, choose soy and rice beverages, calcium fortified orange juice, or goats’ milks and cheese.
* Be careful with dressings, cooking oils and condiments. They are sneaky sources of refined sugar and poor quality oils. Read labels to choose dressings made with olive oil, canola oil or walnut oil. Choose low fat mayonnaise for your sandwiches and choose canola oil and olive oil for cooking.
* Frozen foods are a convenient way to keep vegetables on hand. There are also prepared meals that you can pop into the microwave or oven. These can be convenient and healthy if you choose low fat versions with good portion sizes. Read labels and chose frozen foods wisely. Avoid frozen pizzas, pocket-sandwiches, deep-fried appetizers, and breaded foods.
* Foods in cans and jars are also very convenient. Look for low-sodium soups, vegetables and sauces. Avoid high fat gravies and high calorie foods like canned spaghetti and ravioli products.
* For sandwiches, choose peanut butter or other nut butters, low fat turkey slices or sliced roast beef. Avoid processed lunch meats, sausages and hot dogs.
* Don’t load up on high calorie treats and desserts. Choose fresh fruits, healthy nuts, seeds and whole grain crackers for snacks.