Parents are being given an even greater incentive to create healthy recipes at home through the launch of a new government scheme.

Part of the Change4Life initiative, the Great Swapathon gives people tips on how to keep themselves and their families healthy throughout 2011.

It encourages them to swap one of their unhealthier habits for something that is better for them, which will ultimately benefit adults and children alike throughout England.

The scheme will also see families presented with a £50 voucher book that gives them money off healthy foods and activities, as well as improved access to nutritional advice.

"The healthy option isn't always the cheapest option so it's a really important step to be able to offer £50 off healthier foods, drinks and activities," said health secretary Andrew Lansley.

It was recently revealed by the Co-operative Bank's annual Ethical Consumerism Report that there has been a rise in the number of people buying Fairtrade foods, in spite of the recession.