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Canned Skipjack Tuna
Fish
Nutri-ScoreA

Canned Skipjack Tuna

Katsuwonus pelamis

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Canned Skipjack Tuna provides 132 kcal, 29g 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 skipjack tuna is a convenient source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients, making it a popular choice for quick meals and snacks.

Also known as:
Canned TunaTuna Fish
Scientific NameKatsuwonus pelamis
Region of OriginWidely caught in tropical and subtropical oceans around the world.

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories132 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total30.0g
Protein
29g(97%)
Fats
1g(3%)
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 D2 µg (10%)
Vitamin B129 µg (375%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium63 µg (114%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
High protein content aids in muscle repair and growth, making it ideal for athletes.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D and selenium, which are important for immune function.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb and ketogenic diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain mercury, which can be harmful in large amounts, especially for pregnant women and young children.
!Some individuals may have allergies to fish, which can cause severe reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed straight from the can, mixed into salads, or used in sandwiches. Pair with fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

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

How to Store

Store unopened cans in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate in an airtight container.

Myths vs Realities

MythCanned tuna is not as nutritious as fresh tuna.
RealityCanned tuna retains most of its nutrients and is a convenient option.
MythAll tuna is high in mercury.
RealitySkipjack tuna has lower mercury levels compared to larger species like albacore.
MythCanned tuna is only for sandwiches.
RealityCanned tuna can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads and casseroles.

Healthy Recipes

Mediterranean Tuna Quinoa Salad

This vibrant salad combines canned skipjack tuna with nutritious quinoa, fresh vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and olives.
  2. 2. Add the drained skipjack tuna to the bowl and gently mix to combine.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then drizzle over the salad and toss gently. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tuna-Stuffed Avocado Boats

These avocado boats are filled with a creamy tuna salad, making for a perfect low-carb and healthy lunch option.

Ingredients
  • 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Paprika for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, diced celery, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. 2. Spoon the tuna mixture generously into each avocado half.
  3. 3. Sprinkle with paprika for garnish and serve immediately.

Tuna and Chickpea Salad Wraps

These wraps are packed with protein from tuna and chickpeas, combined with fresh veggies and wrapped in lettuce for a healthy, low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 1 cup canned chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Large lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, chickpeas, bell pepper, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
  3. 3. Spoon the mixture into large lettuce leaves, wrap, and enjoy as a healthy snack or meal.

Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls

These homemade sushi rolls feature spicy tuna and fresh vegetables, offering a healthy twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha
  • 1 teaspoon mayonnaise
  • 4 sheets of nori
  • 1 cup sushi rice, cooked
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with sriracha and mayonnaise until well combined.
  2. 2. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat, spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it, leaving a border at the top.
  3. 3. Place a line of spicy tuna, cucumber, and avocado along the bottom edge of the rice, then roll tightly. Slice into pieces and serve with soy sauce.

Tuna and Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring canned skipjack tuna and a colorful mix of vegetables, perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup snap peas
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat and add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, cooking until just tender.
  3. 3. Stir in the drained tuna and soy sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. Serve over cooked brown rice.

Tuna and Sweet Potato Cakes

These delicious cakes combine canned skipjack tuna with sweet potatoes and spices, creating a healthy and satisfying meal.

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

Tuna Poke Bowl

This poke bowl features canned skipjack tuna marinated in a savory sauce, served over rice with fresh vegetables for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 cup shredded carrots
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with soy sauce and sesame oil, allowing it to marinate for 10 minutes.
  2. 2. In a serving bowl, place the cooked brown rice as the base.
  3. 3. Top with the marinated tuna, avocado, cucumber, and shredded carrots. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Tuna and Spinach Frittata

This protein-packed frittata features canned skipjack tuna and fresh spinach, making it a perfect dish for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for greasing
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Stir in the drained tuna, chopped spinach, and feta cheese.
  3. 3. Pour the mixture into a greased oven-safe skillet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until set. Slice and serve warm.

Tuna and Black Bean Tacos

These flavorful tacos combine canned skipjack tuna with black beans and fresh toppings, offering a healthy twist on traditional tacos.

Ingredients
  • 1 can of skipjack tuna, drained
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Corn tortillas
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix together the drained tuna, black beans, corn, red onion, and lime juice until well combined.
  2. 2. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or microwave.
  3. 3. Spoon the tuna mixture onto each tortilla and garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is canned skipjack tuna healthy?

Yes, it is a healthy source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

How much mercury is in canned skipjack tuna?

Canned skipjack tuna generally has lower mercury levels compared to larger tuna species.

Can I eat canned skipjack tuna every day?

Moderation is key; it's safe for most people to consume a few times a week.

What are the best ways to use canned skipjack tuna?

It can be used in salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or eaten directly from the can.

Is canned skipjack tuna sustainable?

Look for brands that are certified sustainable to ensure responsible fishing practices.

How should I store opened canned skipjack tuna?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.

Does canned skipjack tuna contain added preservatives?

Most canned skipjack tuna is packed in water or oil without added preservatives.

Can I use canned skipjack tuna in recipes?

Absolutely! It can be added to various recipes for added protein and flavor.