Best Canned Salmon of 2024: Top 5 Choices
I’m always looking for healthy foods to add to my diet. Canned salmon has been a big help for me. It’s easy to use, versatile, and full of good stuff. But finding the best canned salmon can be tough with so many choices.
I’ve tried over 30 different canned salmon to find the best. I looked for quality, sustainability, and taste. Now, I’m excited to share the top 5 canned salmon of 2024. These are wild-caught, packed with protein, and rich in omega-3s. They’re also low in mercury.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is a great pantry staple for quick, nutritious meals. It’s perfect for busy days, offering a tasty and low-mercury seafood option. It’s rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D.
The Convenience and Versatility of Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is super convenient. Its shelf-stable canned form means you can whip up a quick meal anytime. It’s great for making everything from salmon salad sandwiches to patties, making your meals better with little effort.
Health Benefits of Canned Salmon
Canned salmon is not just easy to use; it’s also very healthy. It’s a source of high-quality protein, helping you stay full and supporting muscle health. It’s also full of omega-3 fatty acids for heart and brain health. Plus, it’s a good source of vitamin D, which is often missing in our diets.
Compared to fresh salmon, canned salmon keeps most of the same nutritional benefits. It’s a great way to add seafood to your diet or get a quick protein-rich meal. It’s a healthy, versatile choice for your pantry staple.
Criteria for Evaluating Canned Salmon
Choosing the best canned salmon involves several important factors. Look for brands that use sustainable fishing methods. This ensures the salmon is caught in a way that protects the ocean’s health.
It’s also key to find a brand that offers a fresh taste. You want the salmon to taste clean and vibrant, without any unpleasant fishy notes.
Sustainability and Responsible Sourcing
The best canned salmon comes from MSC-certified fisheries that use sustainable fishing methods. These include vertical drift nets and purse seines. These methods help reduce bycatch and protect wild-caught salmon populations.
We focused on eco-friendly practices and small-scale fisheries. This ensures the long-term health of this valuable seafood resource.
Freshness and Flavor
Freshness and flavor are crucial when it comes to canned salmon. We looked for brands that offer a fresh, clean taste. The salmon should have a bright, vibrant color and a flaky, moist texture.
It should not have any metallic or fishy off-flavors. The best canned salmon showcases the natural juices and essence of the fish.
Texture and Appearance
The texture and appearance of canned salmon are also important. We sought out solid, chunky pieces of salmon packed in their own natural juices. Some brands even include salmon with the skin and bones still intact for extra flavor and nutrition.
A good canned salmon should have a flaky, firm texture. This helps maintain the integrity of the fish.
| Brand | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon | 85g | 80 | 1.5g | 35mg | 240mg | 17g |
| Whole Foods 365 Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon | 85g | 80 | 1.5g | 35mg | 240mg | 17g |
| American Tuna Canned Pink Salmon | 85g | 90 | 2g | 40mg | 230mg | 18g |
| Pure Alaskan Salmon Co. Redhead Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon | 85g | 110 | 6g | 40mg | 64mg | 13g |
| Smoked Salmon (brand not mentioned) | 100g | 260 | 18g | 85mg | N/A | N/A |
“Canned foods should be stored in a cool, dry place for best shelf life. Canned foods are often highly perishable and can spoil quickly once opened.”
Best Overall Canned Salmon: Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon
Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon is the top pick for canned salmon. It’s known for its focus on sustainability, great taste, and flaky texture.
This salmon comes from the Pacific Ocean’s clean waters. It’s caught using eco-friendly methods that reduce bycatch. This makes it a sustainable and wild-caught choice that’s good for both quality and the environment.
The salmon’s bright flavor and flaky texture are standout features. It’s packed in its own juices, without salt or fillers. This keeps its freshness and taste, making it great for many recipes.
| Brand | Calories (per 85g) | Protein (per 85g) | Total Fat (per 85g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon | 80 | – | – |
| 365 by Whole Foods Market Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon | – | 17g | – |
| American Tuna Premium Sustainably Caught Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon | 90 | – | – |
| Pure Alaska Salmon Co. Redhead Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon | – | – | 6g |
| Fishwife Smoked Atlantic Salmon | 260 | – | – |
Looking to make a tasty salmon salad or salmon cakes? Or just want a healthy, tasty meal? Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon is your go-to. It’s the best canned salmon for its sustainability, taste, and versatility.
Best Budget-Friendly Canned Salmon: 365 Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon
The 365 brand from Whole Foods is a top pick for budget-friendly canned salmon. It’s wild-caught and MSC-certified. This means you get great taste and sustainability without spending a lot.
This salmon has a mild flavor and a tender texture. It’s perfect for many dishes. You can make a tasty salad, add it to pasta, or enjoy it straight from the can. It’s a wallet-friendly choice that’s also delicious.
Affordable and Sustainable Option
The 365 Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon is priced well. It’s a healthy choice that’s easy on your wallet. Plus, it’s MSC-certified, so you know it’s from sustainable fisheries.
If you want budget-friendly, wild-caught canned salmon that’s still high quality, try the 365 brand. It’s a great mix of affordability, taste, and eco-friendliness.
Best Canned Sockeye Salmon: Pure Alaskan Salmon Co.’s Redhead Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon
Looking for the best canned sockeye salmon? Pure Alaskan Salmon Co.’s Redhead Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon is your answer. It comes from the clean waters near Kodiak Island. This family-owned Alaskan company is proud of their traditional ways, keeping the skin and bones in for a rich taste and a beautiful color.
Pure Alaskan Salmon Co.’s sockeye salmon doesn’t taste flat or bland like some canned fish. The pressure-cooking keeps the salmon firm and flaky. It’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, baked dishes, and pasta.
| Product | Source | Preparation | Flavor | Texture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pure Alaskan Salmon Co. Redhead Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon | Kodiak Island, Alaska | Traditional, with skin and bones intact | Rich, fresh, and bold | Firm and flaky |
Want to make your tuna salad better, create a tasty salmon burger, or just enjoy the sockeye salmon by itself? Pure Alaskan Salmon Co.’s Redhead Wild Alaskan Sockeye Salmon is a great choice. It offers quality, flavor, and is easy to use.
Best Canned Smoked Salmon: Wildfish Cannery Smoked White King Salmon
Looking for a tasty canned smoked salmon? The Wildfish Cannery Smoked White King Salmon is your go-to. It has a creamy, smoky taste that goes well with many foods. Enjoy it with crackers, bagels, salads, or spreads.
The price is $12.00 per 90g can. It’s the top pick among 30+ canned salmon and pouches we reviewed. It scored 7.5/10, beating St. Jean’s Wild Skinless Boneless Sockeye Salmon (8/10) and Signature Select Alaska Pink Salmon (8/10).
This smoked salmon has a soft, paté-like texture. It’s perfect for making dips, topping bagels, or adding flavor to salads. The Wildfish Cannery Smoked White King Salmon brings a wonderful smoky flavor and paté-like texture to any dish.
This premium canned smoked salmon comes from just 5% of king salmon. The Wildfish Cannery Smoked White King Salmon Belly is the highlight. Its versatility and smoky flavor make it a favorite among seafood lovers and food explorers.
Best Canned Salmon for Salads and Sandwiches: St. Jean’s Wild Skinless Boneless Sockeye Salmon
St. Jean’s Wild Skinless Boneless Sockeye Salmon is perfect for salads and sandwiches. It’s made from sockeye salmon that’s flaky and fatty. The fresh-flavored fish is cooked in its own juices, without water or oil.
This skinless and boneless salmon is easy to use in many recipes. It’s great for salmon salad or sandwich-friendly dishes.
With over 117 glowing reviews, St. Jean’s salmon is known for its quality and convenience. It costs between $6.95 and $102.00, making it affordable for health-conscious people. Customers love the fast delivery and the careful hand-packing that fills each can with premium salmon.
| Product | Rating | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| St. Jean’s Wild Skinless Boneless Sockeye Salmon | 8/10 | Top choice for sandwiches |
| Signature Select Alaska Pink Salmon | 8/10 | Best for salmon salad |
| Deming’s Red Sockeye Salmon | 8.5/10 | Ideal for those who enjoy a richer taste |
| Patagonia Original Wild Sockeye Salmon (pouch) | 9.5/10 | Best for travel and on-the-go |
| Taku Smoked Sockeye Salmon | 10/10 | Best of the best in canned salmon |
| Polar Salmon Fillets | 10/10 | Ideal for crackers or rice dishes |
St. Jean’s Wild Skinless Boneless Sockeye Salmon is great for making salmon salad or sandwich-friendly meals. It has an easy-open lid and is packed carefully. This canned salmon offers a fresh flavor and flaky texture that will make your dishes better.
Best On-The-Go Canned Salmon: Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon Pouch
The Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon Pouch is perfect for busy days. It’s packed with protein and comes in flavors like Italian Herb and Citrus Dill. You don’t need a can opener to enjoy it. Just open the pouch and add it to salads, grain bowls, or other dishes for a tasty meal.
The American Heart Association suggests eating 8 ounces of fish weekly for better brain health. Canned salmon is just as good as fresh, lasting longer and costing less. Wild Planet’s canned fish, including their salmon pouches, are top-notch and eco-friendly. They’re ideal for those who care about their health and the planet.
- No can opener required for easy, portable access to salmon
- Pre-seasoned in delicious flavors like Italian Herb and Citrus Dill
- Sustainably sourced and high-quality salmon from Wild Planet
- Provides a convenient, protein-rich snack or meal addition
Whether you’re off to work, the gym, or a hike, the Wild Planet Wild Pink Salmon Pouch is a great choice. It’s a tasty way to get your fish intake without the trouble of traditional canned salmon.
Best Canned Salmon: Taku Smoked Sockeye Salmon
Taku Smoked Sockeye Salmon is the top choice in canned salmon. It has a rich, smoky taste that’s unmatched. The salmon is lightly smoked, giving it a delicate yet satisfying flavor.
The secret to Taku’s great taste is its source. The salmon comes from Alaska’s cold, pristine waters. This ensures it’s fresh and of high quality. The result is a canned salmon full of natural flavor that seafood lovers adore.
Premium Quality and Flavor
Taku Smoked Sockeye Salmon is known for its premium quality and flavor. The salmon is firm and has a vibrant color. Each bite is a mix of salty, smoky notes and natural oiliness, making it a treat.
Looking to improve your recipes or enjoy a fancy snack? Taku Smoked Sockeye Salmon is the best choice. Its versatility and rich flavor make it a favorite among canned salmon fans.
“Taku Smoked Sockeye Salmon is the best canned salmon I’ve ever tasted. The flavor is incredible, and the quality is simply unmatched.” – Food Critic, Gourmet Magazine
Conclusion
Canned salmon is a great addition to many dishes. It’s both nutritious and versatile. We’ve picked the top 5 canned salmon options for 2024, considering factors like sustainability and flavor.
Looking for something affordable or premium? This guide has you covered. Whether it’s pink salmon or smoked sockeye, we’ve got you set.
Adding these best canned salmon choices to your meals is a smart move. They’re packed with protein and support eco-friendly fishing. Canned top picks salmon is a healthy pantry staple that’s easy to use and versatile.
Choosing sustainable seafood means you get to enjoy great taste and health benefits. Plus, you help protect our oceans. Check out the top 5 best canned salmon in this guide. Make your cooking better with this amazing healthy pantry staple.