Best Canned Pickled Herrings of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Canned pickled herrings are a popular and convenient way to enjoy the delicious taste of pickled herring anytime. These tasty fish are preserved in a flavorful brine, which gives them a tangy and slightly sweet taste that is perfect for snacking or as a topping for salads and sandwiches. Canned pickled herrings are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining good health. Whether you are a fan of pickled herring or just looking for a new snack, canned pickled herrings are a tasty and healthy choice.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets Cover #TOP 1
Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets
ftb score rating icon 9.9
MW Polar Herring Kipper Snacks Cover #TOP 2
MW Polar Herring Kipper Snacks
ftb score rating icon 9.8
King Oscar Kipper Snacks: Premium Quality Smoked Herring Fillets Cover #TOP 3
King Oscar Kipper Snacks: Premium Quality Smoked Herring Fillets
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Canned Pickled Herrings

#TOP 1

Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets

Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets Cover
Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets, 3.53 oz Can (Pack of 12) - 18g Protein per Serving - Gluten Free, Keto Friendly - Great for Pasta & Seafood Recipes

Brunswick Boneless Kipper Style Herring Fillets are premium, high-quality canned herring that are a convenient seafood snack or perfect addition to any seafood recipe. Each 3.53 oz can contains 18 grams of protein per serving and is gluten-free and keto-friendly. Enjoy the great taste of boneless kipper style herring as a healthy and tasty snack or add it to your favorite pasta or seafood recipe.

What We Like
Great taste
High protein and omega-3
Good value for money
Mild smoky flavor
Delicate texture
What We Don't Like
Can be an acquired taste
Limited availability
#TOP 2

MW Polar Herring Kipper Snacks

MW Polar Herring Kipper Snacks Cover
MW Polar Herring, Kipper Snacks, 3.53-Ounce (Pack of 12), 90% Less Sodium, Ready to Eat Canned Fish, Good Source of Vitamin D, Naturally Wood Smoked, No Artificial Flavors or Ingredients

Polar Kipper Snacks are a natural and wild-caught canned fish from the Northeast Atlantic, offering authentic wood-smoked flavor without artificial additives. The herring is rich in Omega-3 and hand-packed for delicate texture. Imported from Germany, these kippers are kosher certified and ready to eat. The all-natural goodness ensures a pure fishy taste, while the wild-caught purity guarantees no antibiotics. Enjoy the European excellence and convenience of easy-to-open BPA-free cans, perfect for adding protein and essential nutrients to your meals like pasta, toast, or salads.

What We Like
Excellent taste and quality
Low sodium content
High in omega-3s
Versatile and easy to use
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Price varies significantly
Possible shipping damage
#TOP 3

King Oscar Kipper Snacks: Premium Quality Smoked Herring Fillets

KOC60051
King Oscar Kipper Snacks: Premium Quality Smoked Herring Fillets Cover
King Oscar Kipper Snacks, 3.54 Ounce Cans (Pack of 12), Lightly Smoked Herring Fillets, Wild Caught Canned Herring

King Oscar Kipper Snacks are premium quality boneless fillets of traditionally smoked, wild-caught, MSC-certified herring. These kipper snacks are made exclusively from authentically smoked herring, wild-caught in the ice-cold waters of the North Atlantic. They are all-natural, never with artificial smoke flavoring, and are kosher-certified. These delicious snacks are low-carb, nutritious, and convenient, containing omega-3s and protein. They come in a 12-pack of 3.54 oz cans that are certified BPA-NI, recyclable, and have easy-open pull-rings.

What We Like
Soft and easy to chew
Good smoke flavor
High quality fish
Affordable price
Convenient fast lunch option
What We Don't Like
Brutally fishy smell
Some blandness in flavor
#TOP 4

Viking Prime Herring Cutlets

Viking Prime Herring Cutlets Cover
Viking Prime Wine Herring Cutlets - 22 oz - 1 pack

Viking Prime Herring offers you a delicious and nutritious seafood option. Sourced from the North Atlantic, this product is known for its high-quality herring, ensuring that you enjoy a great taste in every bite. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, it provides a healthy boost that can benefit your heart and overall well-being. This canned pickled herring is perfect for quick meals or snacks, making it easy for you to incorporate healthy seafood into your diet. With its delicate flavor, it’s a versatile choice that can enhance various dishes.

What We Like
Good taste
Convenient online availability
Received in decent condition
What We Don't Like
Some quality issues
Mushy texture
#TOP 5

Norsland Lefse Herring in Wine Sauce

Norsland Lefse Herring in Wine Sauce Cover
Olsen's Herring in Wine Sauce 2 pack

Norsland Herring in Wine Sauce is perfect for a quick and delicious meal. You can enjoy it straight from the jar, making it an effortless snack. It also pairs wonderfully with crackers, adding a savory touch to your gatherings. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, consider using it in a seafood salad. The unique blend of onions, vinegar, sugar, spices, and wine creates a delightful sweet and savory brine that enhances the flavor of the herring. Remember to refrigerate it right after you receive it to maintain its freshness.

What We Like
Authentic flavor
Well-packed with fish
Quality shipping and cooling
Good texture
What We Don't Like
Sweet taste
Potential safety concerns
#TOP 6

Bar Harbor Wild Herring Fillets

207573
Bar Harbor Wild Herring Fillets Cover
Wild Herring Fillets seasoned with crack pepper(pack of 6)

Bar Harbor Herring Fillets are a delicious and nutritious choice for seafood lovers. These fillets are sourced from the wild and harvested sustainably, ensuring you enjoy quality without harming the environment. Being all-natural, they contain no artificial preservatives or MSG, making them a healthier option for your meals. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calcium, they contribute to your overall wellness. You'll appreciate the hand-sorted and hand-packed process that delivers freshness straight from the Gulf of Maine to your table, providing convenience without sacrificing taste.

What We Like
High-quality canned fish
Delicious natural wood smoke flavor
Large fillets, no scraps
Good for keto and dieting
Affordable price for quality
What We Don't Like
Product origin discrepancy
Outdated packaging information
#TOP 7

MW Polar Herring, Smoked in Canola Oil

MW Polar Herring, Smoked in Canola Oil Cover
MW Polar Herring, Smoked in Canola Oil, 6.7-Ounce

MW Polar Smoked Herring is a delicious canned pickled herring that is naturally smoked using a variety of local hardwood. It contains no chemicals or artificial smokes or flavorings, ensuring a natural and authentic taste. Packed in canola oil, this wild-caught herring is not only flavorful but also provides a convenient and easy-to-open packaging. With MW Polar Smoked Herring, you can enjoy the rich, smoky flavor of herring without the hassle. Whether you want to enjoy it as a snack, add it to your salads or sandwiches, or incorporate it into your favorite recipes, this herring is a versatile and tasty option. Its easy open cans make it even more convenient to enjoy anytime, anywhere.

What We Like
Great taste and texture
Large, whole pieces of fish
Long shelf life
Convenient for snacks or meals
Good for emergency supplies
What We Don't Like
Possibly overly salty
Packaging could be improved
#TOP 8

Season Kipper Snacks - Boneless Herring Fillets

Season Kipper Snacks - Boneless Herring Fillets Cover
Season Kipper Snacks - Boneless Herring Fillets, No Salt Added, Naturally Smoked, Wild Caught, Keto Snacks, Certified Sustainable Seafood, Non-GMO, 18g of Protein - 3.25 Oz, 12-Pack

Season Kipper Snacks offer a delicious and nutritious option for those seeking a healthy snack. These boneless herring fillets are naturally smoked, providing a smooth and mildly smoky flavor that enhances any meal or snack. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids and high in protein, they support a balanced diet while being low in cholesterol and mercury. Versatile kippers can be enjoyed as a quick snack, a meal addition, or even for breakfast, pairing well with various sides like toast or cream cheese. Plus, these kippers are sustainably sourced, ensuring you’re making an eco-friendly choice.

What We Like
Rich, smoky flavor
Firm yet tender texture
Versatile for various dishes
Low in salt
Well-priced
What We Don't Like
Some found it a bit dry
Not universally appealing taste
#TOP 9

MW Polar Herring, Smoked/Peppered

16767-C
MW Polar Herring, Smoked/Peppered Cover
MW Polar Herring, Smoked/Peppered, 7.05-Ounce

MW Polar Herring, Smoked/Peppered is a 7.05-ounce canned pickled herring sourced from the cold north sea of Norway. It is naturally smoked using a variety of local hardwoods without any chemicals or artificial smokes or flavorings. It is free of glucose, MSG, and nitrates, making it suitable for paleo, keto, and gluten-free diets. Customers have praised its good flavor and texture, but some have noted that the cans are soft and easily dented.

What We Like
Great taste and seasoning
Large cans with multiple fillets
Versatile for various dishes
Reasonably priced option
What We Don't Like
Strong fishy smell
Inconsistent can fill levels
#TOP 10

Ruegen Herring Fillets in Horseradish Sauce

BABG17783
Ruegen Herring Fillets in Horseradish Sauce Cover
RügenFisch Herring Fillets in Horseradish Sauce, 7.05 Ounce

Ruegen Herring Horseradish Fillets are shelf-stable herring fillets in a zesty horseradish sauce. These fillets are the highest quality herring, providing you with a delicious source of protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy body. Enjoy them straight from the can, toss them into a salad, or use them to create mouthwatering meals. With Ruegen Herring Horseradish Fillets, you can easily elevate your meals with a flavorful and nutritious addition.

What We Like
Excellent taste
Great with horseradish
No cooking required
Popular at parties
What We Don't Like
Horseradish flavor may be lacking
Buying Guide Image

Get the Best Canned Pickled Herrings

Introduction to Canned Pickled Herrings

Canned pickled herrings, also known as sardines, are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. These small, oily fish are packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, with so many different brands and varieties of canned pickled herrings on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. In this article, we will explore some important factors to consider when selecting the perfect can of pickled herrings for your needs.

Consider the Source

One of the most important things to consider when choosing canned pickled herrings is the source of the fish. Wild-caught herrings are generally considered to be of higher quality than farmed herrings. This is because wild-caught herrings are able to roam freely in the ocean, consuming a natural and varied diet. In contrast, farmed herrings are often fed a diet of pellets and other processed foods, which can affect the flavor and nutritional content of the fish.

When purchasing wild-caught herrings, look for cans that are labeled with the country of origin and the specific fishery where the herrings were caught. This will ensure that you are buying high-quality, sustainably-sourced herrings.

Choose the Right Type of Pickling

Canned pickled herrings are available in a variety of different pickling sauces, each with its own unique flavor and texture. The most common pickling sauces for herrings are vinegar, mustard, and tomato. Vinegar-pickled herrings are tangy and tart, with a firm texture. Mustard-pickled herrings are spicy and slightly sweet, with a softer texture. Tomato-pickled herrings are mild and slightly sweet, with a tender texture.

When choosing a pickling sauce, consider your personal preferences and the flavor profile of the dish you are preparing. For example, if you are making a traditional Scandinavian dish like potato salad with pickled herrings, a mustard pickling sauce would be a good choice. If you are serving the herrings as a topping for a salad or crackers, a vinegar pickling sauce would be a better option.

Check the Ingredients and Nutrition Facts

Canned pickled herrings are an excellent source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, not all brands are created equal. Before purchasing a can of pickled herrings, check the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel to make sure you are getting the most nutritional bang for your buck.

Look for cans of herrings that contain only herrings, pickling sauce, and salt. Avoid cans that contain added sugars, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. Also, check the nutrition facts panel to make sure the herrings are low in sodium and saturated fat, and high in omega-3 fatty acids.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing canned pickled herrings, there are several important factors to consider. Look for wild-caught herrings from a reputable source, choose the right type of pickling sauce for your needs, and check the ingredients and nutrition facts to ensure you are getting high-quality, nutritious herrings. With these tips in mind, you can easily find the perfect canned pickled herrings for your next meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is canned herring good for you?

Canned herring is a good source of antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids, and other valuable nutrients. While fresh herring has the most nutritional benefits, canned herring still offers health benefits and is a convenient option.

2. Is jarred pickled herring good for you?

Yes, jarred pickled herring is good for you. It is a good source of vitamin B12, iron, and Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

3. How do you eat a herring in a can?

To enjoy herring from a can, you can make a great crostini. Start by slicing the bread thinly and toasting it lightly. Then, smear cream cheese on the bread and add a drop of mustard. You can also add thinly sliced red onion for extra flavor.

4. Is canned herring high in mercury?

Canned herring is considered a low-mercury fish option. If you are concerned about mercury content, fatty fish like herring, salmon, trout, mackerel, and sardines are generally lower in mercury compared to other types of fish.

5. Is canned herring as healthy as sardines?

Both canned herring and sardines are healthy choices. They are both high in omega-3 fatty acids, with herring being a good source of vitamin D. Sardines are high in vitamins B2, B12, and D, potassium, phosphorous, and more. Sardines also have a lower mercury content than some other fish, making them a potentially healthier alternative to tuna.

6. Is it safe to eat canned herring every day?

Eating herring, including canned herring, is generally safe and recommended. The FDA suggests consuming herring and other similar fish three times a week to benefit from their nutritional value.

7. Is pickled herring high in mercury?

Herring has lower mercury levels compared to certain other omega-3-rich fish like tuna, king mackerel, swordfish, and halibut. Pickled herring can be enjoyed chilled with a light marinade of white wine vinegar, red onion, and dill, or paired with mustard and dill.

8. Is canned herring ready to eat?

Yes, canned herring is ready to eat. It often comes as a meal ready to be served. You can find kippered (smoked) herring in cans in most supermarkets. It can be enjoyed with lemon, mustard, and onion.

9. How do Germans eat canned herring?

In Germany, canned herring is traditionally served cold. It is often accompanied by fried potatoes, rösti, or potato salad. The herrings can also be used in sandwiches. Canned herring is commonly enjoyed for lunch or as a snack at street food stands.

Editor's Notes

During our canned pickled herring research, we found 24 canned pickled herring products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 40,963 customer reviews through our big data system to write the canned pickled herrings list. We found that most customers choose canned pickled herrings with an average price of $29.44.

The canned pickled herrings are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of canned pickled herrings, including Brunswick, MW Polar, King Oscar, Norsland Lefse, Bar Harbor. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

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 Pickled Herrings Comparison Table

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Brand Brunswick MW Polar King Oscar Norsland Lefse Norsland Lefse Bar Harbor MW Polar SEASON MW Polar Ruegen
Item Weight 3.5 Pounds 42.36 Ounces 2.65 Pounds 22 Ounces 12 ounces 2.95 Pounds 6.7 Ounces 3.25 Ounces 7.05 Ounces 7.05 Ounces
Item Form Fillet Whole Fillets Chunk - Fillets Strip Fillets Whole Fillet
Specialty Gluten Free Wild Caught, GMO Free, High Protein, No Added Ingredients, Kosher Certified Wild Caught, GMO Free, Gluten Free, Kosher Certified, Low Carb - - Preservative Free, Wild Caught Wild Caught, Chemical Free Dolphin Safe, GMO Free, High Protein, No Added Salt, Low Fat Smoked, Wild Caught, Chemical Free -
Package Weight 1.59 Kilograms 1.61 Kilograms - 4.9 Pounds - - 0.37 Kilograms 1.59 Kilograms - 0.23 Kilograms
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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