What are the best gourmet canned tuna brands?
When it comes to gourmet canned tuna, a select group of producers stand out for their exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and dedication to traditional fishing and preserving methods. Unlike mass-market tuna, which is often processed quickly and packed in lower-quality oils or brines, gourmet canned tuna brands prioritise responsibly sourced fish, minimal processing, and premium ingredients. The result is a product that delivers exceptional flavour, texture, and nutritional value—ideal for simple recipes where the tuna itself is the star, such as salads, tapas, pasta dishes, or artisanal sandwiches.
Below are some of the most respected gourmet canned tuna brands known for excellence:
Ortiz
Ortiz is a world-renowned Spanish brand specialising in artisanal canned seafood. The company uses traditional pole-and-line fishing methods to ensure sustainability and preserve fish quality. Their tuna, typically bonito del norte (albacore), is celebrated for its delicate flavour and firm, flaky texture. Ortiz products are often matured in olive oil, enhancing richness over time.
Conservas Serrats
Based in Bermeo, in Spain’s Basque Country, Conservas Serrats has been crafting premium tuna preserves since 1890. They use carefully selected white tuna and prepare each piece following artisanal methods. Known for exceptional tenderness and clean, balanced taste, Serrats products are highly regarded by chefs and seafood enthusiasts.
Callipo
Founded in 1913 in Calabria, Italy, Callipo is one of the most respected tuna producers in the Mediterranean. Using high-quality yellowfin tuna, they hand-pack each jar or tin to preserve texture and flavour. Callipo tuna is praised for its softness and vibrant taste, making it a favourite in Italian home cooking and gourmet restaurants.
La Brújula
La Brújula is another premium Spanish brand offering tuna preserved in high-quality olive oil. The fish is meticulously hand-cleaned and packed, resulting in succulent, flavourful fillets with a refined, robust taste.
These brands can be found in gourmet food stores, premium delis, and online retailers specialising in high-end Mediterranean foods.