Joybuy Insights

Tinned fish: how to choose the right products for your meals and budget

Tinned fish has plenty going for it: it is ready to eat, easy to store and works well in all kinds of recipes. But an attractive tin does not tell you everything. Between net weight and drained weight, sometimes-sugary sauces and nutrition tables that are difficult to compare, certain details can push up the price without really improving your everyday meals.

Here are the criteria to consider before buying tinned sardines, tinned mackerel, tuna in spring water or other seafood products.

Pitfalls to avoid when shopping

1. Confusing the total weight with the amount you can actually eat

A 425 g tin generally contains fish, a sauce and a covering liquid. To compare two products, it is better to check the drained net weight, when it is provided. For example, a small tin of sardines labelled 115 g may contain only 80 or 81 g of fish once drained.

This is the figure that gives you the best indication of the number of portions and the true price of the food.

2. Being won over by the words ‘high in protein’ alone

Protein content depends on the species, the recipe and the calculation method. Tuna in spring water may provide 25 g of protein per 100 g drained, while a product in sauce must be assessed by taking all its ingredients into account. Read the entire nutrition table, particularly the fat, sugars and salt content.

A marketing claim can never replace the mandatory nutritional information shown on the packaging.

3. Forgetting storage instructions after opening

An unopened tin can generally be kept at room temperature, in a dry place away from heat. Once opened, the instructions are different. It is often advisable to transfer the contents to a non-metallic container and then place it in the fridge. Depending on the product, it is recommended that you eat it within 24 hours or within two to three days.

For frozen products, such as frozen prawns, check the storage temperature and never refreeze food that has already been defrosted.

Information to compare on the label

Species, ingredients and allergens

The ingredients list helps you distinguish between a simple recipe and a more elaborate preparation. Sardines in olive oil may contain only sardines, olive oil and salt, while a tomato recipe may also include starch, sugar, vegetable oil or a thickener.

Remember to look out for allergens, which are generally highlighted using different typography. Fish is one of them, as are soya, wheat and crustaceans in some recipes.

Covering liquid and nutritional profile

Oil increases the energy content, but it also gives the fish a softer texture and a more pronounced flavour. Mackerel fillets in olive oil work well in salads, on toast and in Mediterranean dishes. Fish preserved in water is easier to mix into a light sauce or cold preparation.

Always compare the values per 100 g, then adjust them according to the amount you actually eat. For products in sauce, pay particular attention to the sugar and salt content.

Format and intended use

  • Small formats : practical for one person, an aperitif or toast.
  • 400 to 425 g family tins : ideal with rice, pasta or potatoes, or for serving several portions.
  • Dried products : dried anchovies are mainly used to add flavour to a dish or as part of a recipe, rather than as a meal in their own right.
  • Fermented fish : best reserved for South-East Asian recipes and for those who enjoy particularly powerful flavours.
  • Ready-to-eat fish : check the preparation instructions carefully, as a raw product must be cooked before eating.
Recommended for : Budget-conscious beginners
MORJON Sardinella in tomato sauce, 425 g

MORJON Sardinella in tomato sauce, 425 g

Why this product suits this profile : At 425 g, this format is ideal for family meals served with rice, pasta or bread.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its family-sized format avoids the need to buy several small tins, while its composition clearly distinguishes the fish, sauce and allergens.

Main benefit and key strengths

425 g, can be stored at room temperature before opening, with 18.3 g of protein per 100 ml according to the information provided.

Recommended for : Fans of premium products
CONNÉTABLE Sardines in extra virgin olive oil, 135 g

CONNÉTABLE Sardines in extra virgin olive oil, 135 g

Why this product suits this profile : This French product is aimed at sardine lovers who enjoy eating them simply, on bread or with potatoes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The ingredients are refreshingly simple: sardines, extra virgin olive oil and salt. There is no complex sauce to decipher.

Main benefit and key strengths

135 g, 24 g of protein and 1 g of salt per 100 g according to the product information; traceability details shown on the tin.

Recommended for : Specific uses and regular shoppers
Maeboonlam Fermented gourami fish, 500 g

Maeboonlam Fermented gourami fish, 500 g

Why this product suits this profile : This product is intended for people who regularly cook Thai or South-East Asian recipes.

How this product avoids the pitfall

Its culinary use is clear, and its intense aroma leaves no doubt that this is not a neutral tinned product intended to be eaten on its own.

Main benefit and key strengths

500 g format, made with 75 % gourami, salt and ground toasted rice.

Recommended for : Quick, protein-rich meals
PETIT NAVIRE Tuna in spring water, 140 g

PETIT NAVIRE Tuna in spring water, 140 g

Why this product suits this profile : Its individual format is perfect for salads, sandwiches or fillings, with no lengthy preparation required.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The label clearly distinguishes the 140 g total weight from the 98 g drained weight, making portion comparisons easier.

Main benefit and key strengths

Tuna, water and salt are the only ingredients, with 25 g of protein per 100 g drained according to the information provided.

Looking for more options ?

We have brought together a complete, real-time selection of products that meet these demanding criteria and European food safety requirements.

FAQ about tinned fish

Can you eat tinned fish straight from the tin ?

Yes, when it is labelled ready to eat. Sardines, tuna in spring water and tinned mackerel can be enjoyed cold or added directly to a recipe. By contrast, raw frozen prawns must be thoroughly cooked, following the instructions on the packaging.

How long can you keep an opened tin ?

First, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If no specific guidance is provided, transfer the contents to an airtight container, place it in the fridge and eat it promptly. The storage period depends on the recipe: some products recommend 24 hours, while others allow up to three days.

How do you choose between sardines, tuna and mackerel ?

Choose sardines in tomato sauce or oil for toast and Mediterranean dishes, tuna in spring water for salads and sandwiches, and mackerel fillets in olive oil if you enjoy soft textures and more pronounced flavours. In more specialised cooking, dried anchovies and fermented fish are mainly used to add flavour to dishes.