More than half of Brits cooking Heinz Beanz on the hob are missing a trick, according to the brand's official taste expert, who says the microwave takes top spot.
As Heinz celebrates 140 years of its iconic staple, new research reveals that 52% of people stick to hob-simmering, while 43% use the microwave, and a surprising 5% skip cooking altogether to eat them cold straight from the tin.
Microwave method praised
Gary Chambers, Heinz's official Beanz Taste & Quality expert based at their factory in Wigan, explained that using a microwave heats the beans quickly and eliminates the need to stand over a hob stirring, while delivering the exact same quality and taste every time.
Produced just down the road at the Wigan facility—where up to 2 million cans are made every day—around 4.5 million cans of Heinz Beanz are consumed across the UK each week.
140 years of history
Food Historian Dr Polly Russell said: "Few foods can claim to have been part of British mealtimes for 140 years, but Heinz Beanz have remained a staple through generations."
"From being sold at Fortnum & Mason in 1886 to becoming an essential food during wartime, they've been there through some of the biggest changes in the way we live and eat."
"When microwaves became commonplace in British kitchens in the 1980s, they made foods like beans even quicker and easier to enjoy, with many Brits choosing to heat theirs this way today."
"Their enduring appeal comes down to their simplicity: accessible, convenient, comforting and, most importantly, delicious. It's no surprise that 140 years on, beans remain a much-loved fixture in British cupboards."
Nutritional appeal
Registered Nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert said: "When life gets busy, having simple, reliable foods you know the whole family will enjoy can make mealtimes feel much easier."
"Heinz Beanz are a delicious source of protein and fibre, making them a convenient option to have in the cupboard when you're looking for a quick and comforting meal as the evenings get colder."
"After 140 years, it's easy to see why they've remained such a trusted staple for families."
