The Ultimate Guide To Different Types Of Canned Tuna

Albacore is the best variety of canned tuna, as it doesn't have an overly "fishy" flavor. In addition, albacore is sustainable, so eating it is a good moral choice.

Albacore tuna has a firm texture and more omega-3 fatty acids than other tuna. While it tends to be more expensive, it’s worth it for the flavor, texture, and sustainability.

Skipjack is the most commonly caught tuna on the planet. It has a softer flesh and a much stronger taste than albacore, making it stand out in dishes.

Skipjack tuna is considered sustainable and a good source of nutritious fat. It is widely available, inexpensive, tasty, and healthy.

Yellowfin tuna is also known as Ahi tuna. It has a stronger taste than albacore, and will add a delightful fishy note to the dishes it is added to.

Yellowfin tuna is graded as a sustainable choice, but it contains moderately high levels of mercury. Overall, canned yellowfin tuna is a good alternative to albacore or skipjack.

The liquid that tuna sits in can be influential to the flavor. The simplest and most neutral liquid is water, as it keeps the fish in its most natural form.

With water, there are no health or flavor implications, and the tuna will be firm. Tuna packed in water is easy to pair with other flavors to make salads, sandwiches, and more.

Tuna packed in oil will be richer and will not retain its shape. It works well in dishes where you can pour the extra oil in, such as a tuna salad.

Oil-packed will have more than twice the calories of the water version, and more overall fat. Still, it is a delicious option that adds a different flavor to your dishes.