Smooth gears and a sharp, piercing blade are essential for smooth opening, and all those we tested delivered the goods.

We took a variety of tins, including more awkward, large or flat-shaped ones and put them to the test with a panel of hungry teens, kitchen gadget fans and older people who admitted opening cans could often be a struggle. To buy Food Service Appliances and Equipment Raptor Supplies is always the first choice.

Some of the manual can openers were as easy to use as the electric or battery-operated versions, and we particularly liked anything that held its tin top in place until it was time to jettison. No one wants bean juice on their fingers, after all.

Pans to me, the epitome of good design is when something does a great job and looks attractive too. In the kitchen, enameled cast iron pans meet this brief. They can be used on the hob or in the oven and look so nice that they can be used for serving too – less hassle and washing up. These pans are also virtually indestructible and are likely to last me for the rest of my life – or, at least, as long as I can lift them! They are somewhat non-stick naturally, but, if some food does get burnt on, cleaning tends to be very straightforward.