Best Canned & Packaged Sardines of 2025

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Canned and packaged sardines are a popular choice for seafood lovers who are looking for a quick and easy meal option. These fish are typically caught in the Mediterranean Sea and are packed with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and protein. They come in a variety of flavors and can be eaten straight out of the can or added to dishes such as salads, pasta, or sandwiches. Canned and packaged sardines are a convenient and healthy food option for those with busy lifestyles who still want to enjoy the taste and health benefits of seafood.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Canned & Packaged Sardines
Wild Planet Sardines in Water
Wild Planet Sardines are a tasty and convenient option for a nutritious snack. Packed in water with sea salt, these sardines are meaty and tender, making them a satisfying choice whether at home or on the go. Each serving delivers an impressive 18 grams of clean protein and is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Plus, with 70% of your daily vitamin D needs met in just one serving, you can boost your wellness effortlessly. Enjoy these scale-free sardines knowing they are sustainably sourced, providing you with both flavor and peace of mind.
Beach Cliff Wild Caught Sardines
Beach Cliff Sardines are a convenient and nutritious option for seafood lovers. These wild caught sardines are packed in water, offering a clean taste without any added oils or sauces. Each can provides 12 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake. You can enjoy them as a quick snack or use them in various dishes like pasta, salads, or rice bowls. Plus, they are shelf-stable, making them easy to keep in your pantry or take along on trips for a healthy protein boost.
Season Sardines in Water, No Salt Added
Season Sardines in Water, No Salt Added are sourced from premier suppliers around the world, ensuring the highest quality. They are an excellent source of natural fish oils, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and are wild caught from the sea. The packaging is designed with the consumer in mind, featuring Easy Peel Innovation for a mess-free opening. Season Brand is certified sustainable by Friend of the Sea, reflecting their pride in sustainability and care for the ocean ecosystem.
King Oscar Sardines in Olive Oil
King Oscar Sardines are a delicious and nutritious option for anyone seeking a quick meal. These wild-caught sardines are wood-smoked and hand-packed, ensuring high quality and flavor. Packed in extra virgin olive oil, they provide a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, calcium, and iron, making them a convenient superfood for your diet. The certified BPA-NI cans are not only safe but also recyclable and feature easy-open pull rings, allowing you to enjoy these healthy sardines anytime, anywhere.
Flower Brand Spiced Sardines in Olive Oil
Flower Spiced Sardines offer a deliciously rich flavor, perfect for elevating any meal. Packed with high-quality ingredients like olive oil and a blend of spices, these sardines can enhance your dishes while providing a nutritious option. Being all-natural and gluten-free, you can enjoy them without worrying about harmful additives. Plus, the sustainable sourcing ensures that you're making an environmentally friendly choice. Whether you're following a keto diet or just looking for a healthy snack, these sardines are a convenient and tasty option for any occasion.
Brunswick Sardines in Olive Oil
Brunswick Sardines offer a delicious and convenient source of high-quality protein. Each 4.4-ounce can is packed with 21 grams of protein and is also rich in Vitamin D, making it a nutritious choice for your diet. You can enjoy these skinless and boneless sardines straight from the can as a tasty snack or add them to your favorite pasta or seafood dishes for an extra protein boost. They are perfect for those following a ketogenic diet, as they are keto-friendly and gluten-free, making meal planning easy and enjoyable.
Season Sardines in Olive Oil
Season Sardines in Olive Oil are a great addition to your diet, providing a premium taste with superior ingredients. These sardines are rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids, making them an excellent source of natural fish oils. The sardines are wild caught using methods that don't impact the seabed and eliminate by-catches. The Season Brand is certified sustainable by Friend of the Sea, ensuring that caring for the ocean ecosystem is important.
NURI Portuguese Sardines Variety Pack
The NURI Portuguese Sardines Variety Pack includes four types of sardines: Pure Olive Oil, Spiced Pure Olive Oil, Tomato and Olive Oil, and Spiced Tomato and Olive Oil. The sardines are handcrafted using all-natural ingredients, with no preservatives or additives. They are tinned in pure olive oil to preserve their natural flavor. The sardines are rich in proteins, vitamins, Omega 3 and fatty acids, low in fat, gluten-free and non-GMO. NURI sardines are of superior quality and have been produced using an artisanal method since 1920.
Mina Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Mina Gourmet Sardines are the best tasting sardines you can find. These wild-caught sardines are sourced from the coast of Morocco, known for producing the finest sardines in the world. Packed in premium Moroccan extra virgin olive oil and a touch of sea salt, these sardines are bursting with flavor. The sardines are hand-packed within hours of harvest in special gold cans, ensuring the freshest and most tender fillets. Not only are they delicious, but they are also healthy and nutritious. With high protein, calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, these sardines are a great source of nutrients. They are low in sodium, making them a suitable choice for those watching their salt intake. Mina Gourmet Sardines are a perfect snack option, offering a fast, easy-to-eat, and satisfying treat. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with bread, salad, or pasta, these fresh and tender fillets are sure to enhance any dish.
Brunswick Sardines in Olive Oil, 12-Pack
Brunswick Sardines in Olive Oil offer a delicious and nutritious option for seafood lovers. Each 3.75-ounce can contains high-quality, wild-caught sardines preserved in olive oil, making them a tasty snack or a great addition to your favorite pasta or seafood dishes. With 16 grams of protein per serving, these sardines are perfect for those looking to boost their protein intake. They are also gluten-free and keto-friendly, catering to various dietary preferences. Enjoy the convenience of having a healthy pantry staple that enhances your meals and snacks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you eat sardines out of the package?
Yes, you can eat canned sardines right out of the package. They come packed in water, oil, tomato juice, or other liquids in a tin can. You can eat them as they are or add toppings like onions, peppers, mustard, mayo, or hot sauce. The heads are usually removed, but you will be consuming the skin and bones.
2. Are canned sardines packed in water healthy?
Yes, canned sardines packed in water are generally a healthy choice. They provide similar nutrition to fresh sardines. When buying canned sardines, it is recommended to look for those packed in water or pure olive oil for the healthiest option.
3. Is it OK to eat canned sardines every day?
While sardines are a good choice due to their nutritional content, it is advisable to eat them in moderation. It is recommended to consume at least one portion (140 grams or 4½ ounces) of fish per week. However, oily fish like sardines may contain higher levels of contaminants compared to other seafood.
4. Are sardines better fresh or canned?
Fresh sardines are generally the better choice, but if fresh sardines are not available, canned sardines can still provide health benefits. When buying canned sardines, choose those packed in water and rinse them if they have added salt. This ensures you get the most out of your canned sardines.
5. How many times a week is it safe to eat canned sardines?
Eating canned sardines two to three days a week is considered a safe and healthy option. They offer a delicious and nutritious way to add more fish to your diet. As with any food, it is best to consume them in moderation.
6. How do you eat packed sardines?
Packed sardines can be enjoyed in various ways. You can eat them straight out of the can, on a cracker with mustard or mayo, sauté them with oil, garlic, onions, and tomato, toss a few in a salad, put them in a pasta dish, or simply eat them as they are.
7. Is it better to buy sardines in oil or water?
Sardines packed in olive oil are often considered to have better taste. However, sardines packed in water have lower fat content. While olive oil-packed sardines contain more fat, it is the healthy type of fat. Ultimately, the choice between oil and water-packed sardines depends on personal preference.
8. Who should not eat canned sardines?
People with kidney problems or gout should avoid consuming sardines. Sardines naturally contain a substance that can increase uric acid levels, which can be problematic for those who are already susceptible to kidney and gout issues. Additionally, canned sardines are high in salt, so individuals with high blood pressure or sodium restrictions should consume them in moderation.
9. How many cans of sardines is it safe to eat per week?
The Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming 8 to 12 ounces (or about two to three 4-ounce servings) of seafood per week, including canned sardines. Following these guidelines allows you to enjoy the health benefits that seafood provides while maintaining a balanced diet.
10. What is the healthiest way to buy sardines?
If you want a low-calorie option, choose sardines packed in water. While they may have a slightly different taste and texture compared to those packed in oil, water-packed sardines are typically lower in sodium and rich in minerals, vitamins, and concentrated omega-3 fats.
During our canned & packaged sardine research, we found 24 canned & packaged sardine products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 140,901 customer reviews through our big data system to write the canned & packaged sardines list. We found that most customers choose canned & packaged sardines with an average price of $29.05.
The canned & packaged sardines are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of canned & packaged sardines, including Wild Planet, Beach Cliff, SEASON, King Oscar, Flower. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
Canned & Packaged Sardines Comparison Table
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Brand | Wild Planet | Beach Cliff | SEASON | King Oscar | Flower | Brunswick | SEASON | Nuri | Mina | Brunswick |
Item Weight | 4.4 Grams | 3 Pounds | 4.32 ounces | 45 Ounces | 4.38 Ounces | 4.3 Pounds | 4.1 Pounds | 4.4 Ounces | 4.4 Ounces | 3.75 Ounces |
Specialty | Sustainably Caught, GMO Free, Gluten Free, Kosher Certified | Wild Caught, Gluten Free | No Salt Added, Wild Caught, GMO Free, High Protein, Omega-3 Rich | Wild Caught, GMO Free, Gluten Free, Low Carb, Kosher Certified | Morocco Wild Sardines | Wild Caught, Gluten Free | Wild Caught, High Protein, GMO Free, Gluten Free, Omega-3 Rich | Preservative Free, Wild Caught, GMO Free, Gluten Free | Responsibly Sourced, Wild-Caught, Low Sodium, BPA-Free | Wild Caught, Gluten Free |
Item Form | Whole | - | Whole | Whole | Whole | Fillet | Whole | Whole | Fillets | Fillets |
Package Weight | - | - | - | - | 0.15 Kilograms | - | 2.12 Kilograms | 0.72 Kilograms | 1.87 Kilograms | 1.66 Kilograms |
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