As with so many things in our modern world, the technologies that wow us today have their roots in the past, but if the idea of steam power simply conjures up nostalgic images of locomotives chugging contentedly through the English countryside, it’s time to think again. 

Steam technology is now bang up-to-date, with manufacturers responding to increasing consumer concerns over healthy eating and ecological issues by delivering products that engage steam as an integral part of the cooking or laundry process. Developments in design and technical specifications have improved the versatility of steam appliances, extending their range of functions to meet consumer demands. 

Neff’s sales director, Mike Jarrett, says: “Such is the popularity of steam cooking that we have doubled the size of our built-in steam offer, with four models now available in our 2009 In-Line Collection. 

Steam ovens and combination steam ovens have really taken off in the last couple of years, as healthy eating and cooking have become such important issues for us all. This is likely to be a continuing trend in the foreseeable future and we predict it will go from strength to strength as consumers learn to appreciate the many benefits of steam cooking.”

The signs are indeed positive, as Bosch’s brand manager Ken Humphrey confirms: “Steam is still a relatively small product segment but showing healthy growth. There are a number of driving factors, including a much greater awareness of healthy eating. The quality of the results achieved, both for pure steaming and steam combi cooking, is stunning. With the trend towards installation of specialist compact appliances, this is an area with a lot of potential.”

The limitations of steam appliances in the past have been addressed and overcome, with new multi-tasking appliances delivering a range of functions. Steve Bristow, md of Coolectric Ltd, Viking’s UK importer, says: “Consumers are becoming used to multifunctional cooking appliances and they like the versatility of a steam oven that can steam fish and vegetables, roast, bake and defrost food. It is in explaining to consumers the value-added features 

of a specific model that the retailer plays a vital role. Live demonstrations can highlight benefits such as precise controls and steam generation outside the oven cavity.”

Joan Fraser, national sales support manager for Smeg, explains why she believes sales of steam ovens have been gaining momentum in recent years: “It appears consumers are purchasing appliances which both contribute to and complement their lifestyles. 

With the general public becoming more health aware, they are increasingly cooking with steam ovens in order to preserve the food’s quality, nutritional value, flavour and aroma. Steam cooking also saves time, which is an integral selling point for people with busy lifestyles.”

Graham Gleave, Atag’s national sales manager, believes that steam will continue to be a big hit and be acknowledged for its many benefits. 

 “Steam is a very useful commodity and is used in many ways in household appliances from cleaning carpets to cooking. Moreover, in dishwashing and washing, it could be advantageous in reducing water consumption in wet appliances in the future.”

He acknowledges that some consumers remain cautious about the effectiveness of steam cooking, and says: “Contrary to the belief of many, steam doesn’t extend the cooking time. Invariably it is much quicker and cooking by steam brings many benefits such as better texture of cooked food, greater nutritional value and all-round versatility.”

And De Dietrich’s sales and marketing director, Richard Walker, offers this interesting thought: “A steam oven can be used as a healthier alternative to a microwave, as up to 90% of the fresh or freshly-prepared foods cooked in a microwave can also be steamed – another useful selling point.”