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The World of Tinned Fish

A fresh look at the tins you thought you knew—plus pairing ideas, health perks, and the brands that make it all worth exploring.


a fresh look at a storied staple

Maybe you already love sardines. Or maybe you’ve had one of those moments. A tin cracked open at the wrong time, a pizza with anchovies left untouched, or a picnic invite that made you wish you’d packed takeout.

But tinned fish is changing. And it’s worth a second look.

These tins hold fish caught fresh and preserved with care. Packed in olive oil, spices, or sauces that deepen flavor over time, they’re not just shelf-stable. They’re layered, rich, and ready to eat. Sardines, for example, can be smoky, lemony, spicy, or tomato-braised. They’re versatile, snackable, and surprisingly elegant.

Pair them with crisp chips, creamy cheeses, pickled veggies, and a chilled drink. Build a board. Share a tin. It’s not just convenient, it’s communal. And we’re here to help with your discovery journey.

A BITE OF HISTORY

Tinned fish has roots in 18th-century France, when Nicolas Appert pioneered food preservation to feed Napoleon’s army. By the mid-1800s, tinning seafood became a global innovation that transformed sardines, anchovies, and mackerel into pantry staples. In Spain and Portugal, the tradition evolved into conservas: hand-packed tins aged like wine, prized for their flavor and craftsmanship.

Today, tinned fish is enjoying a renaissance. It’s no longer just survival food, it’s a delicacy, a conversation starter, and a celebration of coastal culture.

why tinned fish is worth rediscovering

We’ve curated a selection of over 15 top-tier brands, each chosen for flavor, sourcing, and sustainability. From smoky mackerel to spicy sardines, these tins are high-quality, nutrient-rich, and planet-friendly. Packed with protein, omega-3s, and essential vitamins like D and B12. Good for your heart, your brain, and your snack game.

How To Enjoy

Snack It

Board It

Make a Meal

Matiz canned sardines at Zupan's Markets

Keep It Simple

Featured Tinned Fish Picks:

Fishwife Smoked Salmon in Sichuan Chili Crisp

Smoky, spicy, and packed in bold chili oil. Great on crackers with cream cheese or stirred into rice bowls.

La Brújula Yellowfin Tuna Belly

Delicate and buttery, this tuna belly is a standout. Try it with roasted peppers or on a baguette with aioli.

Matiz tinned wild sardines at Zupan's Markets in Portland

Matiz Sardines

Snackable straight from the tin or on toast, pizza or made into a creamy dip with veggies or crackers.

Porthos tinned fish at Zupan's Markets

Porthos Sardines in Hot Tomato Sauce

A classic with a kick. Warm it slightly and serve with crusty bread or chips for dipping.

Belmar tinned Fillets at Zupan's Markets

Belmar Mackerel Fillets

Firm and flavorful, these fillets are perfect for pasta, grain bowls, or paired with pickled onions and mustard.

Boquerones in vermouth vinegar by Don Bocarte Gourmet-Foods

Don Bocarte Anchovies in Vermouth Vinegar

Picked for their exceptional quality, these marinated anchovies from Cantabria are bathed in vermouth vinegar for a bright, delicate finish that melts in your mouth.

Recipes To Try

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