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10 Best Canned Tuna Brand 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

StarKist Chunk Light Tuna in Water, 5 oz (48 Pack) Canned Tuna Fish, Wild Caught, Gluten Free, Ready to Eat, Perfect for Salads, Keto Meals and Snacks, with 20g Protein & 90 Calories Per Serving

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,347
Texture and Flavor

Most important from
39353 reviews

Texture and Flavor
These cans are very moist and have a long shelf life, perfect for a quick, tasty tuna salad.

The StarKist Chunk Light Tuna in Water is a widely popular choice for canned tuna, particularly due to its mild flavor and versatility. This tuna is wild-caught and dolphin-safe, which is an essential consideration for those concerned with sustainability. The 5-ounce cans are packed in water, a healthier option compared to oil, and each serving provides 20g of protein with only 90 calories, making it an excellent choice for various diets including Keto, Paleo, and Weight Watchers. It's also gluten and soy-free, which is beneficial for individuals with specific dietary restrictions.

The texture of the chunk light tuna works well in salads, casseroles, sandwiches, or even as a standalone snack. However, as with most chunk light tuna, it does have a higher mix of smaller pieces which might not appeal to everyone. Additionally, while it is lower in mercury than albacore tuna, it's still important to consume it in moderation. The bulk 48-pack is convenient for regular tuna consumers, ensuring you always have a protein-packed snack on hand.

While it offers many strengths, those looking for premium quality tuna might prefer solid white albacore for its larger, firmer pieces. This product is an excellent, versatile, and sustainable choice suitable for a variety of meals and dietary needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,347
Texture and Flavor

Most important from
39353 reviews

Texture and Flavor
These cans are very moist and have a long shelf life, perfect for a quick, tasty tuna salad.
#2

StarKist 25% Less Sodium Chunk Light Tuna in Water – 5 oz Can (Pack of 24)

Rating
9.1
Type of Tuna
Packaging Medium
Texture and Flavor

Most important from
760 reviews

Type of Tuna
The chunk light tuna has a richer, darker flavor compared to solid white varieties, ideal for recipes needing more taste depth.
Packaging Medium
Packed in water, it requires no draining, making it a convenient choice for quick meal prep.
Texture and Flavor
This tuna offers a moist, flavorful experience that works wonderfully as a topping or mixed into casseroles and pasta salads.

StarKist 25% Less Sodium Chunk Light Tuna in Water is a solid choice for those looking to reduce their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor. It offers a mild, pleasant taste and contains 270mg of sodium per serving, which is 25% less than regular versions. This makes it appealing for people managing their salt consumption. Each 5-ounce can provides 20 grams of protein and only 90 calories, supporting high-protein and low-calorie diets like Keto, Paleo, and Mediterranean.

The tuna is wild-caught and dolphin safe, aligning with sustainability concerns commonly important for seafood buyers. It is also gluten and soy free, which suits those with dietary restrictions. Packaged in water rather than oil, it keeps calories lower and flavor lighter, offering versatile use from salads to casseroles or simple snacks. However, the product is sold in a large 24-pack, which may be less convenient for occasional users or smaller households.

This tuna presents a practical, healthier alternative for everyday use, especially for those watching sodium and seeking a trustworthy, versatile protein source.

Rating
9.1
Type of Tuna
Packaging Medium
Texture and Flavor

Most important from
760 reviews

Type of Tuna
The chunk light tuna has a richer, darker flavor compared to solid white varieties, ideal for recipes needing more taste depth.
Packaging Medium
Packed in water, it requires no draining, making it a convenient choice for quick meal prep.
Texture and Flavor
This tuna offers a moist, flavorful experience that works wonderfully as a topping or mixed into casseroles and pasta salads.
#3

Wild Planet Wild Albacore Tuna, No Salt Added, Canned Tuna, Sustainably Wild-Caught, Non-GMO, Kosher 5 Ounce (Pack of 12), Packaging May Vary

Rating
8.5
Type of Tuna
Packaging Medium
Mercury Content

Most important from
4200 reviews

Type of Tuna
Wild Planet albacore tuna is THE BEST - you will love it.
Packaging Medium
Please don't drain the juices in the can, allow the juice to be mixed back into the fish, and then it will be moist, not dry.
Mercury Content
This is as healthy as tuna gets, simply because they are smaller when pole caught and haven't accumulated as much mercury as the older larger tuna have.
Additives and Preservatives
Minimally processed, cooked in the can with the juices still preserved, no salt added, no oils. Pure fish, no additives or artificial dyes.
Texture and Flavor
It Tastes so much better, no smell. Old fish or going bad fish gets a smell to it, but not this brand.

Wild Planet Wild Albacore Tuna is a standout option in the canned tuna category. One of its primary strengths is the type of tuna used – wild albacore, known for its rich flavor and firm texture. The tuna is hand-cut, hand-packed, and cooked only once, which helps retain its natural juices and flavor, making it a delicious choice without the need for added water, broths, or fillers. The absence of added salt also makes it a healthier option for those watching their sodium intake.

Convenience is another plus, with an easy-to-open pull tab, making it ideal for on-the-go snacking or quick meals. Each serving is packed with a high amount of protein (21 grams per 3 ounces) and beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids (705 mg of DHA and EPA), making it a nutritious choice. The product is Non-GMO, gluten-free, keto-friendly, and Kosher certified, catering to various dietary needs.

Sustainability is a key highlight, as the tuna is 100% pole and line caught, which minimizes bycatch and ensures dolphin and turtle safety. Furthermore, the tuna is naturally lower in mercury due to the selective fishing of smaller, migratory fish. Wild Planet Wild Albacore Tuna is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, sustainable, and nutritious canned tuna option.

Rating
8.5
Type of Tuna
Packaging Medium
Mercury Content

Most important from
4200 reviews

Type of Tuna
Wild Planet albacore tuna is THE BEST - you will love it.
Packaging Medium
Please don't drain the juices in the can, allow the juice to be mixed back into the fish, and then it will be moist, not dry.
Mercury Content
This is as healthy as tuna gets, simply because they are smaller when pole caught and haven't accumulated as much mercury as the older larger tuna have.
Additives and Preservatives
Minimally processed, cooked in the can with the juices still preserved, no salt added, no oils. Pure fish, no additives or artificial dyes.
Texture and Flavor
It Tastes so much better, no smell. Old fish or going bad fish gets a smell to it, but not this brand.

Buying Guide for the Best Canned Tuna Brand

Choosing the right canned tuna brand can be a bit overwhelming given the variety of options available. However, by understanding some key specifications and what they mean, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs and preferences. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting a canned tuna brand.
Type of TunaThe type of tuna used in the can is important because it affects the flavor, texture, and nutritional content. Common types include Albacore, Skipjack, Yellowfin, and Bluefin. Albacore is known for its mild flavor and firm texture, making it a popular choice for salads and sandwiches. Skipjack has a stronger flavor and is often used in chunk light tuna. Yellowfin and Bluefin are typically more expensive and are prized for their rich flavor and texture. Choose the type based on your taste preference and how you plan to use the tuna.
Packaging MediumCanned tuna can be packed in either oil or water. Tuna packed in oil tends to have a richer flavor and more calories, while tuna packed in water is lighter and lower in calories. If you are looking for a healthier option or want to use the tuna in a recipe where you control the added fats, water-packed tuna might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more flavorful and moist tuna, oil-packed might be more suitable.
SustainabilitySustainability is an important factor for environmentally conscious consumers. Look for brands that use sustainable fishing methods, such as pole-and-line or FAD-free (Fish Aggregating Device) methods, which help reduce bycatch and protect marine ecosystems. Certifications from organizations like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) can also indicate that the brand follows sustainable practices. If protecting the environment is important to you, prioritize brands with these certifications.
Mercury ContentMercury content in tuna can be a concern, especially for pregnant women and young children. Generally, smaller species like Skipjack have lower mercury levels compared to larger species like Albacore. If you are concerned about mercury intake, opt for brands that provide information on mercury testing and choose tuna types known for lower mercury levels.
Additives and PreservativesSome canned tuna brands add preservatives, flavor enhancers, or other additives to their products. If you prefer a more natural product, look for brands that offer tuna with minimal or no additives. Reading the ingredient list can help you identify any unwanted additives. Choose based on your dietary preferences and any potential sensitivities or allergies.
Texture and FlavorThe texture and flavor of canned tuna can vary significantly between brands. Some brands offer a firmer, chunkier texture, while others may be flakier or softer. The flavor can also range from mild to strong. Consider how you plan to use the tuna—whether in salads, sandwiches, or cooked dishes—and choose a texture and flavor that will complement your recipes.

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