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Canned Sardine
Seafood
Nutri-ScoreA

Canned Sardine

Sardina pilchardus

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Canned Sardine provides 208 kcal, 25g of protein, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Canned sardines are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to various diets.

Also known as:
Sardines en conserveSardinas enlatadas
Scientific NameSardina pilchardus
Region of OriginVarious coastal regions worldwide

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories208 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total36.5g
Protein
25g(68%)
Fats
11.5g(32%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A50 µg (6%)
Vitamin D8.9 µg (45%)
Vitamin E1 mg (7%)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.3 mg (23%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)8 mg (50%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Vitamin B128.9 µg (370%)
Choline60 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0 mgVitamin K: 0.2 µgFolate: 5 µg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium382 mg (38%)
Iron2.9 mg (16%)
Magnesium39 mg (10%)
Phosphorus490 mg (70%)
Potassium397 mg (11%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.1 mg (5%)
Manganese0.1 mg (5%)
Selenium40 µg (73%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Excellent source of protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and selenium, supporting overall health and immune function.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Canned sardines can be high in sodium; individuals on a low-sodium diet should consume them cautiously.

How to Prepare & Consume

Canned sardines can be eaten straight from the can, added to salads, or used in pasta dishes for added flavor and nutrition.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose cans that are not dented or bulging, and check the expiration date for freshness.

How to Store

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place; refrigerate any opened cans and consume within 3 days.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, Anti-inflammatory, Heart health support
Main Applications
Heart health improvement
Nutritional supplementation
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.

Astaxanthin

Antioxidant properties that protect cells from damage.

How to Consume
Straight from the canIn saladsIn pasta dishes
Did you know?

"Canned sardines are one of the most sustainable seafood options available, often caught using environmentally friendly methods."

Myths vs Realities

MythCanned sardines are unhealthy due to high sodium.
RealityWhile they can be high in sodium, low-sodium options are available, and their health benefits outweigh the risks.
MythCanned sardines are not as nutritious as fresh fish.
RealityCanned sardines retain most of their nutrients and are often more convenient and affordable.
MythEating canned sardines can lead to mercury poisoning.
RealitySardines are low on the food chain and have lower mercury levels compared to larger fish.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Sardine Salad

A refreshing salad packed with protein and healthy fats, featuring canned sardines, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
  2. 2. Add the canned sardines, breaking them into chunks.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the salad and toss gently.

Sardine and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on classic avocado toast, topped with creamy avocado and savory sardines for a satisfying breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in water
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the whole-grain bread until golden brown.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toasted bread and top with sardines and red pepper flakes if desired.

Sardine Quinoa Bowl

A wholesome quinoa bowl featuring canned sardines, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/2 cup corn
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, bell peppers, corn, and green onions.
  2. 2. Add the sardines, breaking them into pieces.
  3. 3. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to combine.

Sardine Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mix of sardines, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection for a healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in tomato sauce
  • 2 large bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix sardines, cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the sardine mixture and place in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender.

Sardine and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata loaded with spinach and sardines, perfect for breakfast or a light dinner, packed with nutrients.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add spinach, and cook until wilted. Add sardines and pour the egg mixture over. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until set.

Sardine Tacos with Cabbage Slaw

Delicious and healthy tacos filled with sardines and a crunchy cabbage slaw, offering a fun twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 4 small corn tortillas
  • 1 cup green cabbage, shredded
  • 1/4 cup carrots, grated
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, grated carrots, lime juice, salt, and pepper to make the slaw.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet.
  3. 3. Top each tortilla with sardines and a generous portion of cabbage slaw. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Sardine Pasta with Garlic and Spinach

A quick and healthy pasta dish featuring sardines, garlic, and spinach, tossed in a light olive oil sauce for a flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 8 oz whole-grain pasta
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook the whole-grain pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
  2. 2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Add the drained pasta and sardines to the skillet, tossing gently. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen. Season with salt and pepper and serve with grated Parmesan if desired.

Sardine and Chickpea Salad

A protein-packed salad combining sardines and chickpeas with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, great for a light meal or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  2. 2. Add the sardines, breaking them into pieces.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over the salad and toss gently.

Sardine and Sweet Potato Cakes

Crispy and nutritious sweet potato cakes mixed with sardines, perfect as an appetizer or a healthy snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in water
  • 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, sardines, breadcrumbs, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. 2. Form mixture into small patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Sardine and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and nutritious stir-fry featuring sardines and colorful vegetables, served over brown rice for a complete meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of sardines in olive oil
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
  • 2 cups cooked brown rice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat and add mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until tender.
  2. 2. Add minced ginger and sardines, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the stir-fry over cooked brown rice and drizzle with soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are canned sardines healthy?

Yes, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential vitamins.

How often can I eat canned sardines?

They can be consumed several times a week as part of a balanced diet.

Do canned sardines contain bones?

Yes, the bones are soft and edible, providing additional calcium.

Can I eat canned sardines if I'm pregnant?

Yes, they are safe and provide beneficial nutrients, but moderation is key.

What is the best way to store canned sardines?

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place; once opened, refrigerate and consume within a few days.

Are there any allergens in canned sardines?

Canned sardines may contain fish allergens; individuals with fish allergies should avoid them.

Can I eat canned sardines on a low-carb diet?

Yes, they are low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats.

What are the environmental benefits of eating canned sardines?

Canned sardines are often sourced sustainably, making them an eco-friendly seafood choice.