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Best Pink & Red Salmon: From Cheap to Premium

Do you like salmon but you find it to be a bit expensive? Not to worry, you can enjoy your favorite fish quite often without paying a ridiculous amount of money. How do you do that? The answer is very simple. All you need to do is to find a high-quality canned salmon. The advantage of canned salmon is that it is cheaper than fresh salmon and you can eat it all year round. Even though it is canned, the fish has a rich flavor, mild taste, deep color, and delicate texture. Canned salmon is also an excellent source of nutrients, which are good for your health. As it is cooked and ready to eat, it will take less time and effort to prepare a meal. You can eat canned salmon as a snack anywhere and anytime.

We have spent months on the research of the canned salmon. We wrote a guide, which can help you choose the right product. We had a taste of various brands and types of salmon. We also used different canned salmon for cooking appetizers and entrees. We picked only the freshest wild fish, which is sustainably caught in the clean waters of Alaska. We chose nice-tasting salmon that soft texture and full color. In other words, we selected the best canned salmon 2020 just for you.

Best Canned Salmon 2020

Canned Sockeye Salmon

Sockeye salmon has a firm texture, earthy taste and intense flavor due to the high fat and oil content. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well. This type of fish is also known as red salmon because of its dark red or orange color. If you are looking for salmon that has refined flavor, taste, and color, you should have a look at this item. You will enjoy eating sockeye salmon as it is or with other ingredients for sure.

Canned salmon is perfect for a quick meal at work or school. You can eat it anytime and anywhere you like. All you need to do is to use a can opener and a fork to enjoy the heavenly taste of the fish. The Redhead sockeye salmon is an ideal complement to roasted veggies and risotto. It also tastes great in mac and cheese or salads. You can just put it on your bread along with cream cheese. Whatever option you will choose you will get a nutritious, healthy and delicious meal.

Wild Alaskan canned salmon is an excellent source of protein, vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3s. This product of USA is kosher pareve certified and perfect for kosher consumers. It is ideal for people who are on a diet as well. Sockeye salmon is sustainably caught in the pure waters of Alaska. A can contains only wild Alaskan sockeye salmon and salt. It is very low in various contaminants or doesn’t have any at all.

The item comes in a box of twelve cans. The weight of each can is 7.5 ounces, while the total weight of canned salmon is 90 ounces. Such package is excellent for a big family!

Advantages
  • Quick meal
  • Healthy
  • Nutritious
  • Kosher pareve
  • Sustainably caught
  • Low in contaminants
  • Rich taste
  • Deep red color
Disadvantages
  • Can be too salty
  • You can find tiny bones
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Sockeye salmon Wild from Alaska USA Yes Mild Mushy Water

Canned Pink Salmon

Wild Planet Alaskan Pink Salmon
Wild Planet, Wild Pink Salmon, 6 Ounce, Pack of 12

Pink salmon is excellent for those people who prefer mild flavor and taste of the fish. The flesh of such salmon has light and pale pink color. The content of oil and fat in pink salmon is lower than in sockeye salmon. However, pink salmon is the fish of the superior quality. This is why it is a popular variety of canned salmon on the market today. If you need canned salmon in a recipe where color and taste aren’t that important, this product is just what the doctor ordered.

Pink salmon will become a perfect addition to sandwich, casserole or soup. It is also an ideal choice for the salmon spread and many other dishes. The exquisite flavor of the pink salmon will complement your meal, which has never tasted so great before! It is so easy to pack this canned salmon in a bag and take it to your school or work. It is also effortless to open a can and enjoy this yummy salmon anytime. You will be able to eat the Wild Planet pink salmon right out of the tin.

A can of this product contains only wild pink salmon and salt. The item comes without bones and skin so that you won’t have to spend time on removing them. The fillet of this fish is packed and cooked only once to retain its natural juice and nutritional value. The Wild Planet salmon is canned fresh instead of being previously frozen before canning. Such process ensures delicate texture and superb flavor of the salmon. Alaskan pink salmon is gluten-free and kosher pareve certified.

The Wild Planet salmon is a product of USA. This pink salmon is sustainably caught in the clear and clean waters of Alaska. The item is rich in omega-3 oils and comes in a pack of twelve cans. Get as much health benefits as you can! The weight of each tin is six ounces.

Advantages
  • Mild flavor
  • Delicate texture
  • Rich in omega-3 oils
  • Gluten-free
  • Kosher pareve
  • Sustainably caught
  • Easy to open
  • Packed and cooked once
  • Canned fresh
Disadvantages
  • A little on the salty side
  • Can be slightly dry
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Pink salmon Wild USA No Mild Soft Natural juice

Canned Smoked Salmon

Vital Choice Wild Alaskan Smoked Sockeye Salmon
Vital Choice Wild Alaskan Smoked Sockeye Salmon 6-Pack – Certified Sustainable Canned Salmon with No Skin or Bones – Kosher, Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium Salmon Smoked with Alderwood, 5.5 oz. Cans

Are you looking for a smoked canned salmon of the superior quality? Then, this product might pleasantly surprise you. It is ideal for those people who find smoked salmon to be irresistible due to its unique flavor accents. You won’t be able to find any brand of canned smoked sockeye salmon that could offer such a fantastic taste.

This Alaskan canned salmon is wild-caught, which is excellent for you if you want to get all the benefits for your health. The sockeye salmon will provide you with protein, omega-3s, Vitamin D, astaxanthin and carotenoid-class pigment that have special powers. The level of the various contaminants and toxins in the wild salmon is very low. The product of USA is sustainably harvested, so it isn’t harmful to the environment.

The Vital Choice canned salmon is smoked with Alderwood, which gives a savory and smoky treat to the fish. As this is a premium product, sockeye salmon has no bones or skin. In such a way, your time and effort will be saved. You won’t have to remove bones and skin or prepare this salmon. Smoked salmon is fully cooked and ready to eat. You will be able to enjoy the delicious wild Alaskan salmon anywhere and anytime.

The natural canned salmon has the finest quality as it is specially selected. It is a healthy choice for you and the perfect accompaniment to almost any dish you like. You can cook an appetizer, Capri or herbed salad, pasta or bean soup, quiche, scrambled eggs and frittata with smoked salmon. The rich flavor of Alaskan sockeye salmon will complement your favorite meal for sure!

An easy-to-open can contains wild Alaskan smoked sockeye salmon, organic garlic, organic brown sugar and natural sea salt. This item is available in a pack of six cans. The weight of each tin is 5.5 ounces. A tin of Vital Choice wild salmon is BPA free.

Advantages
  • Wild caught
  • Rich in omega-3s, protein and vitamin D
  • The product of USA
  • Sustainably harvested
  • Smoked with Alderwood
  • Savory, smoky taste
  • Fully cooked
  • Easy to open
  • BPA free cans
Disadvantages
  • A bit salty
  • Over smoked for some people
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Sockeye salmon Alaskan wild USA No Savory, smoky Firm Water

Canned Cooked Salmon

Henry & Lisa’s Natural Seafood Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon
Henry & Lisa's Natural Seafood Traditional Style Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon, 7.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

Cooked canned salmon is ideal for those people who are always in a hurry and don’t have much free time. If you don’t like cooking or you don’t have enough time for it, you should consider this product. Not only will it save your precious time, but also it will save you effort. Do not hesitate and purchase Henry & Lisa’s Natural Seafood while it’s not too late. You won’t regret that choice because this is a premium quality pink salmon.

This product is hand packed in a traditional way with the bones and skin. This means that pink salmon is an excellent source of calcium, which improves the health of your bones and teeth. Not only is the item rich in calcium, but also it contains a significant amount of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The fish is cooked once in its Omega-3s, which makes it the healthiest canned salmon you can get.

The fishers of the company do their best to preserve the freshness of the pink salmon. You don’t have to worry about food poisoning anymore! The Henry & Lisa’s Natural Seafood company makes sure that only the best part of the pink salmon is used at the cannery. In such a way, you know that you buy an only high-quality piece of the fish.

You won’t find anything else in a can rather than pink salmon and sea salt. This item doesn’t contain any preservatives, hormones, antibiotics or other chemicals. The product is natural, non-GMO, kosher and gluten-free. Canned pink salmon is a great way to get all the needed health benefits. The manufacturer uses only BPA-free lined cans. This wild fish is a product of the USA, which means it is sustainably caught.

The Alaskan pink salmon is available in a pack of twelve cans. The weight of each tin is 7.5 ounces, which is an ideal amount for one serving. Such package might be excellent for a big family.

Advantages
  • Ready to eat
  • Excellent source of calcium
  • Rich in omega-3 oils
  • Fresh
  • The best part of the pink salmon is used
  • Doesn’t contain any harmful ingredients
  • BPA-free lined cans
  • Sustainably caught
Disadvantages
  • A bit salty to some people’s taste
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Pink salmon Wild Alaskan USA Yes Salty Firm Natural juice

Tasting Canned Salmon

Bumble Bee Wild Pink Salmon

This canned salmon is excellent for those gourmets who appreciate the rich and deep flavor of the fish. If you are wondering about the best tasting canned salmon, you should have a look at the Bumble Bee product. The high-quality salmon is very delicious and flavorful. Thanks to such fantastic taste, you can eat it out of the can.

A can contains only pink salmon and salt. This type of salmon is ideal for making pasta, salads, patties, and dips as it has a delicate flavor. The manufacturer offers a great recipe so that you can cook a yummy burger with canned salmon. Pink salmon is quite rich in essential nutrients. It is perfect as a part of your healthy diet. This item is also excellent for kosher consumers and people with gluten intolerance.

As this pink salmon is wild caught, it has exceptional value. It is a healthier option for you and safer option for the environment. Such versatile fish is an ideal ingredient in a variety of recipes. Wild salmon alone tastes very good and smells nice as well. The item comes without skin and bones for quick and easy cooking. A can of salmon is filled with oil for extra earthy taste. You will also enjoy the mild smoky favor of the pink salmon.

The Bumble Bee canned salmon is convenient for packing in picnic or lunch. This fast meal is great for to go bag! One can have just the right size for one serving. It is well packed and easy to open. The product is available in a pack of twelve cans, 14.75 ounces each. Such package will save you from having to go to the supermarket.

Advantages
  • Delicate flavor
  • Smoky taste
  • Kosher
  • Gluten-free
  • Wild caught
  • Ideal ingredient in a variety of recipes
  • Perfect for eating out of the can
  • Easy and quick to open
  • Fast meal
Disadvantages
  • A bit overpriced
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Pink salmon Wild USA No Smoky, delicate Soft Oil

Best Quality Canned Salmon

Crown Prince Natural Pink Salmon - Low in Sodium, 7.5-Ounce Cans (Pack of 12)

If you are looking for premium quality canned salmon, you’d better consider this product. It is perfect for those people who would buy something expensive but good instead cheap and poorly made. You won’t have to worry about the taste, smell, appearance or freshness of this finest-quality canned fish. The natural canned salmon will meet all your needs and requirements.

This can of salmon will offer amazing benefits to your health. The product is a great source of protein and an excellent source of calcium. The Crown Prince salmon comes with bones and skin so that you can get an extra portion of calcium. It will improve the health of your teeth and bones. Canned pink salmon contains 1.5 grams of omega-3s per one serving. The high-quality natural canned salmon is low in sodium. This product is non-GMO, kosher and gluten-free. It is perfect for those people who need to keep a special diet.

The only ingredient you can find in a tin is pink salmon. It doesn’t even contain any salt, which is ideal for people who prefer their fish to be not salty. Such salmon tastes good in soups and cakes. It is also a wonderful complement to the vegetables. The Crown Prince canned salmon is a product of the USA, which comes from an Alaskan fishery. This means that pink salmon is sustainably wild caught.

The item is available in a pack of twelve cans. The weight of each tin is 7.5 ounces. The total weight of this pack is 90 ounces. It is convenient to buy such package because you won’t have to go to shops each time you run out of canned salmon.

Advantages
  • Excellent source of calcium
  • Great source of protein
  • High in omega-3 fatty acids
  • Low in sodium
  • Kosher
  • Gluten-free
  • Non-GMO
  • No salt added
  • Sustainably wild caught
Disadvantages
  • Pale color
  • Bland taste
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Pink salmon Wild USA Yes Bland Firm Mushy

Canned Wild Salmon

Wild canned salmon has many advantages over farm-raised salmon. Farmed salmon may contain various toxins, contaminants, and antibiotics, which are harmful to your health. Farmed salmon may also cause water pollutions and harm to other fish. If you prefer wild caught salmon to farm-raised, this product is ideal for you. You can be sure that none of the abovementioned problems will be of your concern if you purchase Kirkland Signature canned salmon.

Sockeye salmon is caught in the icy, crystal clear waters of Alaska to deliver perfection to your table. The wild salmon retains its deep red color, exquisite taste, and mouthwatering texture. Such fish will add an exceptional and unique touch to any meal or snack. This product will become a perfect accompaniment to sandwiches, tacos, and patties. Your family will appreciate and enjoy any dish cooked with wild caught salmon for sure.

The tasty sockeye salmon is fully cooked, which means it is ready to serve and eat. Not only is this canned salmon excellent in your favorite recipes, but the fish also tastes great if you eat it out of the can. A can contains skinless and boneless Alaskan sockeye salmon and salt. This product is ideal for kosher consumers as a part of their diet. It doesn’t include any harmful artificial colors. The item is naturally rich in omega-3s (410 mg per serving).

The Kirkland Signature canned salmon is a product of USA. This means that your fish isn’t shipped across the world for processing or canning. As it is a product of Alaska, this seafood is natural, wild and sustainable. The item is available in a pack of three cans. The weight of each tin is six ounces.

Advantages
  • Deep red color
  • Rich flavor
  • Succulent texture
  • Fully cooked
  • Ready to serve
  • Versatile
  • Kosher
  • No artificial colors
Disadvantages
  • Expensive
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Sockeye salmon Alaskan Wild USA No Rich Succulent Water

Canned Alaskan Salmon

Henry & Lisa’s Natural Seafood Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon

Alaskan canned salmon is the best fish you can get. You will get the high-quality and healthy product if you buy Alaskan seafood. Moreover, the Alaskan fishery is sustained, well managed and harmless. It ensures the abundant return of the wild salmon. It is an ethical choice to go for the Alaskan product. If you prefer your canned salmon to come from the healthy and clean waters of Alaska, you should consider this natural seafood.

The Henry & Lisa’s Natural Seafood preserves the freshness of the meat. Only the best parts of the pink salmon are used at the local micro-cannery. The original pack uses hand-packed fillet meat without any skin or bones. However, the fish may contain some bones so be careful. This salmon is cooked once in its omega-3 oils so that it is rich in heart-healthy omega-3s (717 mg per serving). As it is very yummy and ready to serve item, you can eat your salmon straight from the can. It is effortless to open a tin of wild Alaskan pink salmon.

Canned pink salmon is excellent with some herbs, seasonings and lemon or pickles. It is also great for making burgers, chowders, patties, salads and many other dishes.

This natural seafood of the premium grade is kosher certified. The canned pink salmon is also non-GMO and gluten-free. A can contains pink salmon fillet, sea salt and nothing else! It doesn’t include any preservatives, antibiotics, hormones and other added chemicals. All of that maximizes the health benefits of the fish. The manufacturer uses only BPA free can liners. The item comes in a pack of four cans. The weight of each tin is six ounces.

Advantages
  • Boneless and skinless fillet meat
  • Kosher
  • Non-GMO
  • Gluten free
  • No preservatives
  • No antibiotics
  • No hormones
  • No added chemicals
  • BPA free can liners
Disadvantages
  • A bit crunchy
  • Costly
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Pink salmon Wild Alaskan USA No Bland Crunchy Own juice

Best Price Canned Red Salmon

When your wallet is tight, there’s nothing better than affordable canned salmon. Red salmon is quite expensive fish, as you know. However, we have picked a product, which will help you save money and at the same time enjoy your favorite seafood. Sockeye salmon for the money doesn’t have to be low-quality. Expensive products don’t always turn out to be superb. We make sure that you will get superior quality at a reasonable price. If you are looking for cheap canned blueback salmon, you should choose Rubinstein’s product.

The premium red salmon is fresh because it is caught in the cold and clear Alaskan waters. These species are considered the richest in nutrients, flavor, and color. Canned sockeye salmon will add a unique full taste and festive color to any appetizer or entrée. It is an ideal complement to sandwiches and salads or hot recipes. Your meal won’t be dull and bland if you use the Rubinstein’s canned salmon. On top of that, you will get the desired health benefits if you go for blueback salmon.

You can eat canned salmon as it is, thanks to its full, unsurpassed flavor and creamy red color. You should use this salmon in sophisticated recipes when you want to make your family or friends feel very special. Your fine cuisine will impress your guests for sure.

A can contains only red salmon and salt. Sockeye salmon is ready to eat as it is fully cooked. The blueback salmon retains skin and bones for providing you with valuable minerals and vitamins. One serving also contains 1000 mg of omega-3 fatty acids. This product is kosher certified, so it’s perfect for kosher consumers.

The item is available in a pack of six cans. The weight of each tin is 7.5 ounces.

Advantages
  • Fresh
  • Full taste
  • Festive color
  • Unsurpassed flavor
  • Fully cooked
  • Rich in calcium
  • Great source of omega-3s
  • Kosher
Disadvantages
  • Contains a lot of juice and skin
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Red salmon Wild Alaska USA Yes Full, rich Firm Own juice

6oz Canned Salmon

Kirkland Signature Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon 6/6 Ounce Cans

If you are wondering about canned salmon of the particular size, you should consider this product. Six ounces of salmon is enough for one serving, which is quite convenient. One tin is ideal for cooking various dishes or just eating straight out of the can. A pack of six cans will last for about a week. You won’t have to go to shops too often. If you don’t like to run out of things, this canned salmon is just what you need.

The Kirkland Signature wild pink salmon is excellent for a quick snack when you are in a hurry. It is also effortless to make a meal out of the canned Alaskan pink salmon. This product is ideal for making salads, or you can use it on the whole-grain bread. The salmon will taste great with light mayo or mustard, cracked pepper, celery, squeezed lemon, and mozzarella. You can use your creativity to cook a delicious dish out of the pink salmon.

The pink salmon is fed naturally for two years in the North Pacific Ocean. After the fish is caught, it is transported to the local cannery. The skin and bones of the Alaskan salmon are removed. The salmon is packed into a can, which is very easy and convenient to open. You will have a yummy serving of the fish ready in a blink of an eye. The product has many health benefits because it contains numerous nutrients. If you lead a healthy lifestyle, this pink salmon is ideal for you because it is rich in vital minerals. One serving of the wild Alaskan salmon delivers 700 mg of omega-3 fatty acids. The Kirkland Signature canned salmon is gluten-free and kosher certified.

Advantages
  • Quick snack
  • Make a meal out of canned salmon in a blink of an eye
  • Easy to open a can
  • Convenient size
  • BPA free can
  • Kosher
  • Gluten-free
  • Rich in omega-3s
Disadvantages
  • Tin may be badly dented
Type of fish Wild/farmed Country of origin Skin and bones Taste Texture Packaging
Pink salmon Wild Alaskan USA No Delicate Crunchy Water

Canned Salmon Buying Guide

Canned Salmon vs Tuna

You always want what is best for your health and well-being of your family. However, sometimes you have no idea what is beneficial to you and what may cause harm. Thus, it can be difficult for you to make a win-win decision due to the lack of knowledge. Not to worry! We will help you make the right choice.

There are few things to consider when buying canned foods. You should pay attention when it comes to choosing between salmon and tuna. Which one is better tasting and healthier? If you still don’t know how to choose between the two of them, the answer is salmon. We will give you an easy and quick explanation why.

First, people know how many salmon there are and how many they can catch. Salmon always return for spawning to the place where they were born. Therefore, fishers can determine how many salmon they can take without damaging the population. The situation with tuna is entirely different because it is hard to estimate the precise size of its population. We don’t know for sure whether we manage the tuna correctly or not.

Nowadays people know how to catch salmon without hurting other creatures. The salmon fishing is very selective today. The size of the net can be altered to catch a particular fish and allow other fish to pass through unscathed. Aquatic mammals occasionally get entrapped in salmon nets but not as bad as during tuna fishing. In the process of catching tuna, anglers also accidentally trap sharks, sea turtles, and dolphins.

The salmon used for canning most of the time eat microscopic plankton and small crustaceans. It means that such fish are lower in heavy metals and toxins. Tuna feed on fish that in turn consume other fish. Thus, the species of tuna used in tuna canning are higher in mercury. The only thing you should remember: the larger and the older the fish is, the higher the toxic risks are. The next time you are in a shop, take your time and consider buying salmon.

Canned salmon offer four times more omega-3 fatty acids than canned tuna. Salmon also contains more fat than tuna. Both of them provide you with a considerable amount of dietary protein. None of them includes any carbohydrates. Canned salmon with bones offer a higher amount of calcium than any fish. Canned tuna contains slightly more cholesterol than canned salmon. Both of them are good sources of vitamins.

The taste of canned salmon differs from the flavor of canned tuna. The flavor of salmon is stronger than tuna’s, so it goes well with lemon and dill. Canned salmon is ideal for pasta, quiches, and salads. As canned tuna has a slightly different taste, it is perfect with avocado and tomatoes. Tuna is excellent for salads, sandwiches, casseroles or on the toast.

In general, both canned salmon and tuna are healthy options. Nevertheless, you should take into consideration a few things. We hope that our team has made it easier for you to decide between canned tuna and canned salmon.

Types of Canned Salmon

Salmon is a common name that describes several species of the ray-finned fish in the Salmonidae family. The most common types of salmon used for canning are pink and sockeye salmon. It is not surprising that you are looking for canned salmon. It is a cheaper option and all-year-round kind of food. You also will get all the nutritional benefits of wild salmon. You should have a look at the abovementioned fish when purchasing canned salmon.

Pink salmon are the smallest and the most common fish of Pacific species. It lives in the Arctic and Pacific coastal waters. Mostly they can be found in areas from Washington to Alaska. You can also see them in the waters from Northern California to Canada and from Siberia to Japan. Sometimes they are called humpback or humpies because of their distinguishing hump. Pink salmon develop it on the back when they spawn. It is hard to predict the abundance of these fish due to their only two-year lifespan. However, it is considered to be the most abundant species of salmon.

Pink salmon are mostly sold canned, but you can also find smoked, frozen and fresh salmon. The flesh of the fish is mild flavored and very light colored. They have a lower fat and oil content than red salmon. These pale and mild-tasting fish are less rich than sockeye salmon. Nevertheless, pink salmon are high-quality fish for the money. You should use them in recipes where the flavor and color aren’t essential. Pink salmon is perfect to use in casseroles, soups, and sandwiches.

Sockeye salmon are also known as red salmon because of their color. When the fish spawn, they change their color from the bright bluish, metallic to the deep red. They are a small species of salmon, too. Red salmon are found in the eastern and western Pacific Ocean. They also can found in the waters of Siberia in the west and the Canadian Arctic in the east.

Red salmon are economically important because of their firm texture and full, deep, rich flavor. Sockeye salmon aren’t the most abundant species of salmon, though. They are known as ‘reds’ due to the dark red-orange color of their flesh. That’s what makes red salmon the most popular fish among salmon species. Thanks to the high fat and oil content, sockeye salmon have a delicious taste and intense flavor. This kind of salmon is high in omega-3s as well.

You can find smoked, frozen, fresh and canned sockeye salmon on the market. The best-tasting salmon comes from the waters of Copper River in Alaska. You can use canned red salmon in delicate chowders and lightly dressed salads. Their flavorful taste will be an ideal accompaniment to your dish and make your meal yummy.

Both red and pink salmon have similar nutritional value. You should choose the one that tastes great to your opinion and has a texture you prefer. You can also find chum or keta canned salmon, coho, chinook and Atlantic canned salmon in a supermarket.

Wild Caught vs Farm-Raised Canned Salmon

When you decide to buy canned salmon, you will have to choose between wild caught and farm-raised options. Even though most canned salmon is wild, some brands also offer farmed salmon. All Alaskan salmon are considered wild-caught, while Atlantic salmon is farm-raised. You should always check the label to pick the best one for you. Our goal is to help you understand which one to purchase.

We highly recommend you to go for wild canned salmon. You should look for the label on the can, which indicates that the salmon you buy is Alaskan red (sockeye) or pink salmon. It means that such salmon is the wild fish from the North American waters. The Alaskan fishery is harmless, well run and sustained. It is America’s main source of the wild fish. They are managed to ensure the abundant return of the wild salmon in the future. Mostly, it is an ethical choice if the salmon you buy is wild-caught.

Wild salmon is healthy fish that has a rich flavor and deep color of the flesh. They are higher in omega-3 fatty acids, which help you fight allergies and other health problems. Wild caught salmon is also lower in saturated fat and toxins than farm-raised salmon. Wild salmon have fewer calories than farmed salmon. The level of persistent organic pollutants and contaminants is lower in wild caught fish than in farmed salmon.

You can download an application that provides a guideline on which species of both fish to avoid and which to look for. You should also keep an eye out for a special blue sticker, which is bestowed by MSC (Marine Stewardship Council). This sticker certifies that your salmon was caught using proper fishing practices.

Even though wild canned salmon is more expensive than farm-raised, it is the best choice for the environment and your health. They are also superior regarding the taste, texture, flavor, and quality.

The environmental groups like the Environmental Defense Fund and Seafood Watch put almost all farmed-raised canned salmon on their ‘red’ list. The reason why is because salmon are kept in the large crowded pens where they can be infected with lice. In such a way, farmed fish can spread the disease to wild salmon. Farmed salmon can be treated with antibiotics as well. Farmed-raised salmon raise concern about toxins such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).

Not to mention, it takes about three pounds of fishmeal and wild fish to raise one pound of farmed salmon. Such salmon is a poor choice due to the pollution of waterways, too. Atlantic salmon is always farmed because they have been almost driven to extinction in the wild. Currently, salmon farmers want to improve their practices. In the future, the Congress will set specific standards for aquaculture.

You should look for the label certified by Aquaculture Stewardship Council. It ensures that salmon farms follow particular requirements for clean seabeds, closed pens, proper feed (pellets containing fish oil, essential nutrients, plants, fish meal, and occasionally carotenoids), minimal impact on wild salmon and environment.

Canned Salmon Nutrition

It won’t do any harm to you if you check the nutrition facts of the product you are going to buy. Such information is quite useful for those people who keep the diet and have certain restrictions on consumption of the particular fish. As the pink salmon is the most common variety of canned salmon, we will have a look at its nutrition information. We will take the size of one serving, which is three ounces.

Such a portion of canned pink salmon contains 118 calories. The 46 calories come from fat, and 72 calories come from proteins. About 85 grams of canned salmon contains 5.1 gram of total fat. Three ounces of pink salmon carries 1.3 grams of saturated fats and 3.8 grams of unsaturated fats. Canned salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. A portion this size delivers 1493 mg of this compound.

One serving of canned salmon contains 16.8 grams of proteins, which is over one-third of your recommended daily intake. However, three ounces of pink salmon contain no carbohydrates, which considered to be the third basic nutrient.

Canned pink salmon is also rich in minerals and vitamins. One serving carries more than 100% of the daily allowance of vitamin D. It also delivers 62% of daily intake of vitamin B12.  A portion of canned salmon brings 13% of vitamin B6 as well. Three ounces of pink salmon contain 40% of selenium, 28% of niacin and phosphorus. One serving of canned salmon delivers smaller yet significant amounts of pantothenic and folate acid, riboflavin, potassium, iron, calcium, copper, and zinc.

Toxin such as mercury is found in many fish. Nevertheless, Alaskan salmon is considered the safest fish you can eat. You should look for such salmon to avoid the consumption of toxins and their side effects.

Canned Salmon Health Benefits

We know about health benefits of the fresh salmon. When it comes to the canned salmon, we aren’t so sure about its advantages. Both canned and fresh salmon are beneficial to our health as they are high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. If you purchase canned salmon with bones, you will get a hefty dose of calcium. Canned salmon is a cheaper option, which can provide you with minerals and vitamins all year round.

Canning process doesn’t degrade the essential nutrients in salmon. This means that you will also get proteins, healthy monounsaturated fats and other nutrients from the canned salmon. It will be easier for you to add such salmon to on-the-go meals and get all the benefits. Canned salmon may become a part of the healthy diet.

A ¼-cup serving of canned salmon supplies 12 grams of protein. Protein helps repair cells and promote the growth of new sells. You can get the needed protein from the fish like canned salmon, as it is low in fat. A one-quarter cup of canned salmon contains only 1 gram of saturated fats, which may cause certain diseases. The rest 4 grams are unsaturated fats, which improve blood cholesterol profiles and stabilize heart rhythms.

Fatty acids might help improve your heart’s health. They play an essential role in normal retinal and neurological development. Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids can lower triglyceride levels. They also reduce the risk of strokes, abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks and plaque buildup on the arterial walls. Fatty acids may lower your blood pressure that might cause heart diseases.

It can be quite challenging to eat bones, but they soften during the manufacturing process. Bones of the canned salmon contain calcium. Calcium is a vital mineral that maintains and produces strong teeth, nails, and bones. It is also vital for the normal functioning of your muscles, heart, nerves and other systems of the body. Calcium might help prevent rickets (a weakening of bone) and osteoporosis (porous and weak bones). A ½-cup serving of canned salmon provides you with 290 mg of calcium, which is about 20% of your daily intake. You should eat bones, instead of removing them if you want to get the needed calcium.

A 3.5-ounce serving of canned salmon provides 7 milligrams of niacin, which is half of the value we require daily. It is a B vitamin that maintains the health of your nerves and skin. It might play a role in proper functioning of the digestive system. Niacin may also lower your bad cholesterol levels.

A 3.5-ounce serving of canned salmon carries a recommended daily intake of vitamin D. The vitamin encourages normal absorption of calcium. It also helps your body maintain proper phosphorus and calcium levels. This vitamin plays an essential role in immune function, new bone growth and cell division. The vitamin D is also vital for healthy muscle function and regulation of the inflammation in the body.

A 3.5-ounce serving of canned salmon contains five micrograms of vitamin B12. This is twice as much as you need on a daily basis. The vitamin helps promote the production of red blood cells, which transport oxygen throughout the body. This vitamin also encourages proper brain function. It may play a role in protecting your heart from diseases.

Canned Salmon Side Effects

Canned salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins. However, it may contain mercury and other harmful toxins. If you eat a significant amount of contaminated salmon, you can suffer from the side effects of those chemicals. Their high doses may cause organ failure, cancer, and even death. Nevertheless, it is safe to eat canned salmon in moderate quantities (multiple meals per week).

Fish have a terrible habit of soaking up all the harmful chemicals in their environment and salmon are no exception. As the amount of mercury in a can of salmon is quite low, it is classified as a low-mercury fish. Canned salmon may also contain such heavy metals as polychlorinated biphenyls or PCBs, pesticides, and dioxins.

The PCBs don’t decay fast so they can be found in the bottom of lakes and rivers. This makes it very easy for salmon to soak the PCBs up. These chemical toxins may cause weight loss, weakened immune system, liver damage and breathing problems. Dioxins are slow to decay and can cause nervous system damage, skin lesions and reproductive damage. The side effects of pesticides may vary from killing your liver to destroying your brain.

Bisphenol A or BPA is a compound, which is used in small amounts in the food can lining. If you consume BPA in high doses, it may block the hormones of your body. BPA is an endorphin disrupter, which can cause side effects like developmental disorders, mental health issues, infertility, and cancers.

It is safe to consume the abovementioned chemicals and contaminants in low doses only. The overconsumption of these harmful toxins may cause serious side effects.

Things to Look for When Buying

Country of OriginSkin and BonesPackagingFreshness and Texture
Before you decide to purchase canned salmon, you should pay attention to its country of origin. Some cans of salmon are labeled “Product of Thailand” and “Alaskan wild caught” at the same time. You might ask, how is it possible? Why does such a contradiction exist? It means that the salmon was caught in the U.S. and shipped overseas for canning or processing and then sent back for selling. You would agree that this is a long way for your fish to travel across the world before reaching your plate.

Some companies send the fish overseas to save some money. They do it all in the name of cheap labor! However, the quality of salmon that travels back and forth is very questionable. This is why you want your canned salmon to be a product of the USA. You should avoid those cans, which have labels that say “Product of Thailand” or any other Asian country. Not to mention, such countries as Vietnam and China don’t adhere to the particular requirements. Many species have become overfished and exploited there. We should also mention the problem of bycatch and damaging harvesting methods that exist in those countries.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration inspects only two percent of the seafood that comes from other countries. This is why it is better for you to stick with what’s caught close to your home. The U.S. fishery has made considerable progress toward rebuilding populations under federal law and ending overfishing. You can be sure you are buying salmon that are sustainably caught if you go for an American product.

In case you didn’t know, some canned salmon is available with bones and skin. They are left on the fish, but you can eat both because they are cooked and not crunch. Usually, such bones are chewable and soft so you won’t have any trouble eating them. It is a personal preference whether you should buy skinless and boneless canned salmon or the one with skin and bones.

If you don’t like salmon with bones and skin, but you purchased a can by mistake, don’t worry. You can remove the skin and give it to your pet or throw it away. You won’t even notice any bones or skin if you run the salmon through a blender. Mostly, you would go for a premium product that looks better and tastes good. However, the skin and bones are more likely to be removed from it. Regular canned salmon is considered the high-quality product as it contains beneficial bones and skin.

Those people, who want to include calcium in their diet, should stick with canned salmon that has skin and bones. Bones are rich in calcium, so it is very healthy for you to eat them. Perhaps, the color and the look of such salmon won’t be perfect, but it’s worth it. A 4-ounce serving of regular salmon supplies about 200 milligrams of calcium, which is 20% of the daily intake you need. If you buy premium canned salmon, you might lose a good source of calcium. This essential mineral helps maintain dental and bone health.

You should take into consideration the weight of canned salmon when you are buying one. Some products can be packaged together with water, which adds extra weight. Sometimes the liquid you find in a can of salmon isn’t added on purpose. This liquid occurs naturally when the salmon is cooked. It shouldn’t matter to you why that water ended up in a can. The important thing is that you will get a small portion of salmon. The 20-30% of the weight of canned salmon can be water or natural juices.

You need to pay attention to this essential factor if you don’t want to pay more for just water. Everybody wants to make the most out of the dollars! This is why you should learn how to determine whether you overpay or getting a great deal when buying canned salmon. Mainly those people who purchase this product online for the first time should be aware of this issue. In such a way, you will get more fish and less liquid.

We want you to get a good bargain, so we give you this important information. You should consider it because you can rely on it for sure. Our guide will make it an easy task for you to choose the best canned salmon for your meal. Now you know about various options of canned salmon on the market today.

Paying attention to the freshness of your salmon is crucial. You have a risk of food poisoning or foodborne illness if the fish in a can isn’t fresh. You don’t want that to happen! Such symptoms as fever, abdominal cramps, headaches, weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea are the results of food poisoning. Viruses, bacteria, parasites and their toxins are the most common causes of foodborne illness. Spoiled canned salmon may cause discomfort and pain. This illness is very unpleasant and uncomfortable.

Infectious organisms can contaminate salmon at any point of production or processing. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to check the freshness of canned salmon before you purchase it.  However, the freshness of the fish can be tasted once you open a can. The freshest salmon you can get is the one that has been caught in the wild. Those cans that contain less sodium will also deliver fresh taste.

When it comes to the texture of the fish, you might know that different brands provide you with various textures of salmon. Some manufacturers will offer you shredded and watery canned salmon. You can also find canned salmon that breaks apart in pieces or flaky salmon. You should choose the one according to your personal preferences. You need to find out what texture of the fish will be ideal for your dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is canned salmon?
Canned salmon is dressed and washed fish, which is cut into pieces of various sizes. Salmon is filled in sterilized cans with spring water, saline, oil or natural juices. A tin of salmon goes through the double steaming process in a vacuum-tight environment to kill the bacteria. A tin is put under the cold water to be cooled and dried. It is examined to make sure that the fish is safe for consumption.
What does canned salmon taste like?
Canned salmon has mild, tender flavor without any strong fishy taste. It is creamy and soft so that it melts in your mouth. Canned salmon has its unique flavor and doesn’t taste like chicken or tuna. If canned salmon is packed in water, it will taste almost like fresh salmon. The difference will be more significant if salmon is filled with oil. Canned salmon is often quite salty, but you may find it acceptable.
How long does canned salmon last?

Unopened canned salmon will last for 3 to 5 years at the room temperature if properly stored. It is even safe to use after that most of the time. If you want to extend the shelf life of canned salmon, you need to store it in a cool and dry place.Opened can of salmon will stay at best quality for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. You should refrigerate your salmon in a tightly covered plastic or glass container if you want to maximize its shelf life. You can also freeze canned salmon in freezer bags or airtight containers.

How to tell if canned salmon is bad?
The best way to check if opened canned salmon is spoiled or bad is to look at it and smell it. You shouldn’t consume salmon if it develops an off flavor, odor, and appearance. You should also discard canned salmon if mold and mildew appear on it. It can be unsafe to use spoiled fish because it can cause food poisoning.
How to debone canned salmon?
You can debone your salmon quickly if you bought one with skin and bones by accident. You need to pry apart the center of the salmon where the spine is located. In such a way, it will be easier for you to remove it in fewer pieces. You should use your fingers to remove large bones from the salmon. You need to use tweezers to remove small bones from the fish. You will have to pull the salmon apart to access all the bones and then discards them. You should try not to squeeze the bones hard because it can break them and make them more difficult to remove.
What is kosher canned salmon?
As a Jew should be involved in a cooking process of various foods, canned salmon should be prepared under the full-time supervision. That’s what Kosher canned salmon can offer. The full-time involvement of the company in the process will make sure that kosher consumers will be able to use their products.
What to do with canned salmon?
Canned salmon is a very versatile ingredient, which can be used in different recipes. You will be able to cook burgers, sandwiches, tacos, salads, cakes, pies, casseroles, stir-fries, croquettes, patties, risotto, pasta, chowder, stew, sushi, quiche, rolls, meatballs, loaf, wraps, mousse dips and many other dishes.

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Nicolas Tondeur

About Nicolas Tondeur

Every year Nicolas Tondeur organizes Ales Tales Festival in London. Nicolas developed an interest in cooking and craft beer testing since 16 year old. Although he was born in Belgium Nicolas has traveled to North America, Europe, and Middle Asia sharing his knowledge.

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