10 Best Sardines 2026 in the United States

King Oscar Premium Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil offer a delightful Mediterranean flavor, making them a great choice for anyone looking to incorporate healthy, tasty snacks into their diet. These sardines are wild-caught in Norway, known for its pristine waters, and come delicately hand-packed with a blend of black olives, red bell pepper, garlic, and herbs of Provence, enhancing their appeal.

Nutritionally, these sardines shine with 14 grams of protein and heart-healthy omega-3s, making them suitable for keto, paleo, and Mediterranean diets. The 3.75-ounce cans are convenient, featuring an easy-open lid, allowing for quick snacks at home or on-the-go. They can be enjoyed directly from the can, on crackers, or as an ingredient in various recipes.

A significant advantage is the brand's commitment to sustainability, employing selective harvesting methods to reduce bycatch, which supports healthier seas. Additionally, purchasing these sardines in a bulk pack of 12 can be cost-effective and ensures you're well-stocked for whenever hunger strikes.

Wild Planet Wild Sardines come packed in extra virgin olive oil with a subtle lemon flavor and a light smoky touch, offering a tasty and meaty sardine experience. They are whole, scale-free, and come in convenient pull-tab tins, making them easy to enjoy at home or on the go. Each serving is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D, making it a nutritious choice for those looking to boost their health. These sardines are wild-caught in the North Pacific using sustainable fishing practices, which is great if you care about environmental impact. The product is also non-GMO, gluten-free, and kosher certified, broadening its appeal to different dietary needs.

One consideration is the size, which is relatively small (4.4 ounces per tin) and might be less filling if you want a larger portion. Also, the oil-packed option means a richer taste and texture but adds extra calories compared to sardines packed in water. For those who prefer a lightly flavored, healthy snack or meal addition and value sustainability, these sardines are a solid pick. However, if you want a larger size or a water-packed version for a lighter taste, you might want to consider other options.

King Oscar Sardines in Extra Virgin Olive Oil come in convenient 3.75-ounce cans sold as a 12-pack, making them a good pantry staple for regular use. These are small brisling sardines, wild caught from Norway's cold fjords, which generally means a tender texture and mild flavor. The sardines are lightly wood smoked and packed in extra virgin olive oil, adding a rich taste that’s often preferred over those packed in water or other oils. This product scores well on nutrition with high protein (16 grams per can) and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health. It's suitable for diets like keto, paleo, and Mediterranean. Packaging with easy-open lids makes them convenient for snacking at home or on the go.

Sustainability is a focus here, as the fishing methods aim to reduce bycatch, helping protect ocean health. However, the country of origin is Poland, which might be surprising since the fish are from Norway—this likely refers to where the product is canned. The size is standard for sardines, but some might prefer larger portions or different packaging options. Buying in bulk may save money over single cans. For those wanting premium, flavorful sardines with thoughtful sourcing and versatile uses, this product represents a strong choice, though those seeking water-packed sardines or a lower price might look elsewhere.