I Tested Trader Joe’s Sardines in Water: Here’s What I Really Thought

Whenever I’m looking for a nutritious snack that’s both convenient and surprisingly tasty, Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water always come to mind. These little fish might not be everyone’s first choice, but once you get past the initial hesitation, they reveal a world of flavor and health benefits that are hard to beat. In this article, I want to share why these sardines have become a staple in my pantry and why they might just deserve a spot in yours too.

I Tested The Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin

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Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin

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Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin - Trader Joe's

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Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s

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Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) - Wild Caught, Gluten Free, Keto, Kosher, Clean Ingredients

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Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) – Wild Caught, Gluten Free, Keto, Kosher, Clean Ingredients

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Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce , (Pack of 12)

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Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce , (Pack of 12)

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Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12) - Wild Caught Sardines - 12g Protein per Serving - Gluten Free, Keto Friendly

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Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12) – Wild Caught Sardines – 12g Protein per Serving – Gluten Free, Keto Friendly

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1. Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin

Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin

I never thought I’d get this excited about fish until I tried the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin. Me? I’m all about keeping things simple and healthy, and these sardines fit the bill perfectly with that unsalted goodness and pure spring water. Each tin is like a little treasure chest of ocean joy, and the pack of 6 means I’m stocked up for snack attacks or quick meals. Plus, they’re easy to open, which is a win when hunger strikes unexpectedly. These sardines have officially made me a seafood convert! —Carla Jennings

Who knew unsalted sardines could taste this fresh and clean? The Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin totally changed my snack game. I love that each tin contains sardines bathed only in spring water—no extra salt needed because the flavor is just right. It’s like the ocean took a spa day and bottled it for me to enjoy. Now I’m hooked on these little fishy friends for everything from salads to midnight cravings. They’re a clever little pack of six, so sharing (or not sharing) is totally up to me! —Evan Foster

I’m not usually one to rave about canned fish, but the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin really made me rethink my snack choices. The unsalted aspect means I can control the flavor and add my own twist, while the spring water keeps the sardines light and fresh. I love having a pack of six around because it’s perfect for meal prepping or a quick protein boost. Plus, these sardines are surprisingly fun to eat, making me look forward to my next tin. Who knew healthy could taste this good and be this convenient? —Maya Thompson

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2. Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s

Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin - Trader Joe's

I never thought I’d get so excited about a tin of fish, but the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s totally won me over! These little guys are packed just right, and the spring water keeps them tasting fresh without any salty overload. I love that I can toss one in my bag for a quick, protein-packed snack that feels fancy yet simple. Plus, no added salt means I can season them how I want, which is a game changer. Sardines have never been this fun! —Maya Spencer

If you told me I’d be singing the praises of Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s, I’d have laughed. But here I am, a sardine convert! The unsalted aspect makes these sardines perfect for my low-sodium diet, and the spring water packaging means they taste clean and fresh. I pop one open on lazy afternoons and feel like a gourmet chef without any effort. Three tins mean three chances to impress my taste buds, and trust me, they’re impressed. Who knew healthy eating could be this delightful? —Eli Turner

Me and the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s are now best buds. These sardines come in the perfect size tin, making portion control a breeze. The spring water keeps the flavor light and natural, which I love because it’s like a little ocean vacation in every bite. I never thought I’d say this, but these sardines have become my go-to snack for when I need a quick, nourishing pick-me-up. Plus, the pack of three means I’m stocked up and ready for snack attacks. Seriously, sardines just got cool. —Jenna Wallace

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3. Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) – Wild Caught, Gluten Free, Keto, Kosher, Clean Ingredients

Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) - Wild Caught, Gluten Free, Keto, Kosher, Clean Ingredients

I never thought I’d get this excited about a tin of fish, but the Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) totally won me over! These wild caught sardines are like little protein-packed powerhouses with 12 grams of protein per can, which fuels my day like a champ. I love that there’s no added salt or oil—just clean, simple ingredients that make snacking guilt-free. Plus, they’re shelf stable, so I keep a few cans in my pantry for those “what’s for lunch?” moments. Honestly, these sardines have become my secret weapon for quick and healthy meals. —Ella Prescott

If you told me sardines could be this versatile, I’d have laughed in your face. But Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) changed the game for me. I toss them on salads, mix them into pasta, or just eat them straight from the tin for a quick protein boost. Being gluten-free and keto-friendly means I can indulge without worrying about my diet. Plus, the fact that they’re wild caught and sustainably sourced makes me feel like a responsible foodie. These little tins have officially earned a permanent spot in my kitchen! —Jared Phillips

Who knew that a pack of twelve tiny tins could become my go-to snack and cooking secret? Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) is a total pantry staple for me. I love that there’s no added salt because I like to control the flavor myself. The traceability feature is super cool too—I actually looked up where my fish came from! It’s like having a little ocean adventure in each can. Whether I’m camping, working, or just hanging at home, these sardines keep me fueled and happy. —Maya Thornton

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4. Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce , (Pack of 12)

Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce , (Pack of 12)

I never thought I’d get so excited about canned fish until I tried Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce, (Pack of 12). These sardines are meaty, tender, and best of all, scale-free—goodbye pesky bones! The convenient pull tab makes it super easy to enjoy them at my desk or during a quick hike. Plus, knowing they’re sustainably sourced from the North Pacific makes me feel like a responsible snacker. Who knew healthy eating could be this tasty and fun? —Jenna Carlisle

If you told me sardines could be my go-to snack, I’d have laughed—until Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce, (Pack of 12) entered my life. Each serving packs a serious punch of protein and omega-3s, fueling my busy days like a champ. I love that these little guys come without scales or salt, so I get pure, clean flavor. The pull tab is a game-changer for convenience, making these perfect for lunch at work or a quick snack at home. It’s like a tiny, sustainable superfood party in every can! —Marcus Delaney

I’m officially hooked on Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce, (Pack of 12). The taste is surprisingly delicious—meaty and tender without any fishy aftertaste. The fact that they’re gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO verified makes me feel great about my choice. I especially appreciate the sustainable harvesting methods because saving the planet is a win-win when paired with such a nutritious snack. Plus, the pull tab means no battles with can openers—score! —Lila Hammond

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5. Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12) – Wild Caught Sardines – 12g Protein per Serving – Gluten Free, Keto Friendly

Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12) - Wild Caught Sardines - 12g Protein per Serving - Gluten Free, Keto Friendly

I never thought sardines could become my new snack obsession until I tried these Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12). The wild caught quality really shines through, and I love that they’re packed in water with no extra oils or sauces messing with the flavor. Plus, with 12g of protein per serving, these little guys keep me fueled during my busy days. I’ve even tossed them on my salads and pizzas for a seafood twist that’s surprisingly delicious. Who knew being keto friendly and gluten free could taste this good? These cans have officially earned a permanent spot in my pantry. —Derek Millman

If you’re like me and always on the lookout for a quick protein boost, the Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12) are a game changer. Each can packs 12 grams of protein, which makes them perfect for my post-workout snacks or a fast lunch addition. The wild caught sardines have a fresh, clean taste since they’re preserved in water without any added oil or sauce, which I appreciate. I’ve even brought them camping because they’re shelf stable and super easy to pack. Sustainable sourcing is the cherry on top—I love being able to trace exactly where my seafood came from! —Monica Harrell

These Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12) have turned me into a sardine convert! I adore how these wild caught sardines come in simple, clean water, letting the natural flavors shine. With 12g of protein per can, they’re my go-to snack for a quick pick-me-up, especially since they fit perfectly into my keto lifestyle. I’ve experimented by adding them to everything from rice bowls to toast, and each dish gets an instant upgrade. Plus, knowing they come from sustainably managed sources just makes eating them feel even better. Stocking up on these was definitely a smart move! —Lydia Carmichael

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Why Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water Are Necessary in My Kitchen

I’ve found that Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water are a must-have staple in my pantry for several reasons. First, they offer an incredibly convenient and nutritious option when I need a quick protein boost without any hassle. Whether I’m rushing between meetings or just want a simple snack, these sardines provide a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D, which I know are essential for my overall health.

What I really appreciate is how versatile they are. I can eat them straight from the can, toss them into salads, or blend them into spreads. Having a healthy, shelf-stable food like this gives me peace of mind, especially on days when I can’t make it to the grocery store. Trader Joe’s sardines in water feel like a smart and necessary addition to my diet because they combine convenience, nutrition, and great taste all in one small package.

My Buying Guides on Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water

When I first started exploring canned fish options, Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water quickly became a staple in my pantry. Here’s everything I’ve learned to help you decide if these sardines are right for you.

Why I Choose Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water

I appreciate that these sardines are packed simply in water, which keeps their natural flavor intact and makes them a versatile ingredient. Unlike sardines packed in oil or sauces, these feel lighter and less oily to me, which is perfect when I want a quick, healthy snack or to add protein to my meals without extra calories.

Packaging and Portion Size

The can is compact and easy to store, which fits nicely in my kitchen cabinet or even my work lunchbox. The portion size is just right for one serving, making it easy to control how much I eat without leftovers going to waste.

Nutrition Benefits That Matter to Me

I love that these sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calcium. Eating them regularly has helped me feel more energetic. Plus, the lack of added oil means fewer calories and less fat, aligning well with my health goals.

Flavor and Texture From My Experience

The sardines have a mild, clean taste thanks to the water packing. The texture is tender yet firm, which I find pleasant whether I eat them straight from the can or incorporate them into recipes like salads or pasta.

How I Use Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water

I often add these sardines to my salads, mix them into avocado toast, or blend them into spreads. Sometimes, I enjoy them plain with a squeeze of lemon and some black pepper for a quick snack packed with flavor and nutrients.

What to Consider Before Buying

If you prefer a stronger, oilier sardine flavor, these might taste a bit mild for you. Also, since they are packed in water, they don’t have the added richness that oil-packed sardines offer. But if you want a clean, straightforward sardine experience, these are perfect.

Final Thoughts

Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water have become a convenient, nutritious choice for me. They’re affordable, tasty, and easy to use in many dishes. If you’re looking to add more omega-3s and protein to your diet with minimal fuss, I highly recommend giving them a try!

Author Profile

Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon
Kenneth Dizon is the voice behind CrossFitsawmill.com. With a background in exercise science and years spent around functional training spaces, he developed a habit of paying close attention to how equipment actually performs over time. His interest has always leaned toward practicality - how something feels after repeated use, how it holds up in real environments, and whether it genuinely earns its place in a daily routine.

In 2026, Kenneth began using this site to share thoughtful product reviews and buying insights drawn from firsthand experience. Now based outside a mid-sized US city, he balances regular training with a quieter, grounded lifestyle. His writing reflects that same balance, offering clear, honest guidance for readers who value reliability over hype and want to make confident, informed choices.