Buying Canned Tuna: Your 2026 Selection Guide

Canned tuna is a convenient and nutritious staple in many households. Whether for a quick salad, a hearty sandwich, or as a protein-packed addition to pasta—its versatility is undeniable. But the selection on supermarket shelves or online can be overwhelming: tuna in oil, in brine, as solid fillets, or in chunks.

This guide is designed to give you clear direction. We'll explain the key differences between products and present a curated selection to make your decision easier when buying tuna.

What to Look for When Buying Canned Tuna

To find the right product for your needs, a few basic criteria are essential.

1. Packing Liquid: Tuna in Oil vs. in Brine

The liquid the tuna is packed in affects both its flavour and its nutritional value.

• Tuna in Brine (or its own juice): This version generally contains less fat and fewer calories, as the fish is packed only in water and salt. The natural flavour of the tuna is more prominent. This option is often the top choice for a calorie-conscious diet or for athletes looking for high-protein tuna with low fat content.
• Tuna in Oil: Here, the fish is preserved in vegetable oil, usually sunflower or olive oil. The oil makes the fish moister and more flavourful. Tuna in oil is well-suited for dishes where the oil can be used as part of the dressing or sauce, such as in a classic tuna for salads. Note that the fat and calorie content is higher here.

2. Cut: Solid Fillets vs. Chunks

The form of the tuna in the can indicates its quality and intended use.

• Tuna Fillets (Solid): These are whole, firm pieces of fish meat. Tuna fillets are more visually appealing and are excellent when you want to preserve the fish's texture in a dish, for example, as the main ingredient in a salad or on a pizza.
• Tuna Chunks (or "Flaked"): This variety consists of smaller, already broken-up pieces of fish. It's ideal for preparing spreads, fillings, or sauces, as the fish mixes easily with other ingredients.

3. Sustainability: The MSC Label

For environmentally-conscious consumers, the origin of the fish is a key factor. Sustainable tuna is identified by labels like that of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). The blue MSC label on the packaging signals that the fish comes from a fishery that meets independent standards for environmentally friendly and sustainable fishing.

Our Selection of Canned Tuna for 2026

Here is a curated selection of products that cater to different needs and tastes.

Century Tuna Hot & Spicy

Why it stands out: This variety combines tuna flakes with a spicy chilli note and comes pre-seasoned. An interesting option for those who like it hot.

Benefits:

• Pre-seasoned and ready to use
• Combination of tuna and soy protein
• Convenient portion size for quick meals

Who it's for: Ideal for lovers of spicy food looking for a quick and flavourful ingredient for wraps, sandwiches, or rice dishes.

Jeden Tag Tuna Fillets MSC in Sunflower Oil

Why it stands out: This product offers solid tuna fillets in sunflower oil and carries the MSC label for sustainable fishing. It is distinguished by its high protein content.

Benefits:

• Sustainable tuna (MSC-certified)
• High protein content of 25g per 100g
• Solid fillet pieces, ideal for salads
• No carbohydrates

Who it's for: A great choice for environmentally-conscious consumers and athletes who value solid fillet quality and high protein content.

Saupiquet Tuna Fillets in Olive Oil

Why it stands out: Saupiquet uses Skipjack tuna fillets for this product, packed in high-quality olive oil. The olive oil gives the fish a characteristic, Mediterranean aroma.

Benefits:

• Packed in flavourful olive oil
• Solid tuna fillets
• Protein content of 24g per 100g (drained weight)
• Convenient 2x80g twin-pack

Who it's for: Perfect for gourmets who appreciate the taste of tuna combined with quality olive oil and want to use it for pasta, salads, or as an antipasto.

Jeden Tag Tuna Fillets in Brine

Why it stands out: This option is the top choice for a low-fat, high-protein diet. The fillets are packed only in water and salt, which brings the pure tuna flavour to the forefront.

Benefits:

• Very high protein content of 26g per 100g
• Extremely low in fat with only 1.2g of fat per 100g
• No added oils or fats
• Pure, unadulterated tuna flavour

Who it's for: Especially recommended for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone following a calorie- and fat-conscious diet without wanting to sacrifice high protein intake.

Looking for More Options?

Haven't found the right product yet, or want to explore more varieties? In our canned fish category, you'll find a wider selection of tuna products as well as other canned fish specialities.

Discover our entire range of canned fish here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the nutritional difference between tuna in oil and tuna in brine? Tuna in brine is significantly lower in fat and calories. While 100g of tuna in brine often contains only about 1-2g of fat, the fat content of tuna in oil can rise to 10-20g, depending on the amount of oil. The protein content is comparably high in both versions, usually between 20 and 26g per 100g.

2. How can I identify sustainably caught tuna? Look for recognised sustainability labels on the packaging. The most well-known is the blue label of the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). It certifies fisheries that are proven to operate sustainably, protect fish stocks, and minimise their impact on the marine ecosystem.

3. How long does opened canned tuna last? After opening, the tuna should be immediately transferred from the metal can to a sealable, non-metallic container (e.g., glass or plastic). Stored in the refrigerator, it should be consumed within 2 to 3 days. Always follow the specific instructions from the manufacturer on the packaging.