The first branded self-heating ready meal cans could be on supermarket shelves within six months. Graham Taylor, md of Hotcan, said the company was working with a major manufacturer and that "three of the big five" multiples were already interested. Hotcan's patented, self-heating technology has been used by the armed forces and emergency services for years, and products are also available in US and European outdoor pursuits outlets. Mainstream ready meals would extend the offering to all consumers on the move. The meals heat in 12 minutes and stay hot for 45 minutes thanks to a chemical reaction when the outer casing is punctured. The Hotcan range of 400g recyclable cans includes five meat and two vegetable varieties. Rsp is likely to be £2.50 to £2.99. {{P&P }}