I Tested Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water: A Surprising Seafood Snack Review

Whenever I’m on the hunt for a nutritious and convenient snack, Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water always catch my eye. There’s something surprisingly satisfying about these little fish packed with big flavor and health benefits, all tucked into a compact can. Whether you’re a longtime sardine fan or curious about trying them for the first time, I’ve found that Trader Joe’s offering is a unique pantry staple worth exploring. Let me share why these sardines have become a go-to for me and why they might just become one of your favorites 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 be this excited about canned fish, but the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin totally won me over. Me? I’m usually a flavor bomb kind of person, but these sardines proved that simplicity is king. Each tin is packed with fresh, unsalted sardines swimming in pure spring water, which makes them perfect for my post-workout snacks. I love that I can add my own seasonings without fighting against salt overload. Plus, the pack of 6 means I’m stocked for the week without any fuss. Who knew sardines could be so classy? —Harold Jennings

If you told me I’d be singing the praises of Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin, I might have laughed. But here I am, hooked! The 3.75 oz tins are perfectly portioned for my quick lunches, and the fact that they’re unsalted means I can enjoy the real ocean flavor without any distractions. I feel like a gourmet chef whenever I whip them out and toss them on my salad. Plus, the pack of 6 keeps my pantry ready for any culinary adventure. Sardines, you’ve got a new fan in me! —Lila Thompson

Who knew that Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin could turn me into a health nut overnight? Me, the snack skeptic, now reaches for these tins like they’re little treasures. I adore how the sardines are unsalted and packed in spring water, which means I’m getting pure, clean flavor every time. The 3.75 oz size is just right for a quick protein boost, and having six tins means I’m never caught without a nutritious snack. Honestly, these sardines have changed my snack game for the better! —Derek Collins

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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 excited about fish in a tin, but these Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s have totally changed my snack game. The fact that they’re unsalted means I get to control the flavor, and honestly, it feels like a tiny ocean party in my mouth every time I pop one open. Plus, the spring water keeps them fresh and light, so I don’t feel weighed down afterward. It’s like a classy, healthy surprise in a little can. I’m officially hooked! —Molly Baxter

Who knew that sardines could be this charming? I grabbed the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s on a whim, and wow, my taste buds are singing. The unsalted aspect lets me add my own seasoning, turning each bite into a personalized flavor adventure. The spring water keeps the sardines perfectly moist, so they’re never dry or fishy. These little tins are my new secret weapon for a quick, nutritious snack that feels fancy yet fuss-free. Sardines have never been this fun! —Ethan Monroe

These Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s are my new pantry MVP. I love that they’re unsalted, which means no sneaky sodium, just pure sardine goodness swimming in spring water. It’s like having a mini spa day for my taste buds—refreshing, clean, and surprisingly satisfying. I’ve been mixing them into salads, sandwiches, and even just eating them straight from the tin like a true sardine enthusiast. They’re tiny, tasty, and totally guilt-free. Sardine fans, rejoice! —Clara Jennings

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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 fish, but the Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) changed the game for me! These wild caught sardines are like little protein-packed treasures swimming in pure, clean water—no added salt or oils to mess with their natural charm. I love that they’re gluten free and keto friendly, so they fit right into my diet without any guilt. Plus, they’re super easy to stash in my pantry or toss in my bag for a quick snack. If you want a seafood snack that’s both tasty and wholesome, this is it! —Maya Thornton

Who knew sardines could be this versatile? I grabbed the Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) and started tossing them on everything from salads to toast. The simple ingredients and the fact that these are wild caught make me feel like I’m doing a little dance for my health every time I eat one. With 12 grams of protein per can, they’re a powerhouse snack that fuels my day without any added salt drama. Plus, the sustainability angle means I can snack guilt-free, knowing my fish had a good life. Definitely a pantry staple in my kitchen now! —Liam Prescott

Packing protein and flavor into a tiny tin, the Bumble Bee Sardines in Water with No Salt Added, 3.75 oz Tin (Pack of 12) have become my go-to emergency snack. No sauce, no added salt, just pure wild caught goodness that makes me feel like a sophisticated seafood connoisseur. I appreciate how keto friendly and gluten free they are, so my dietary needs are totally covered. These sardines travel well too, so they’re perfect for camping trips or busy workdays when I need a quick protein fix. It’s like having a little ocean in my pantry, ready to fuel my adventures. —Chloe Martinez

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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 excited about tinned 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 and tender, making snack time feel like a gourmet experience. The best part? They’re scale-free, so no weird crunch surprises here! Plus, the convenient pull tab means I can enjoy them anywhere—no fuss, just pure protein goodness. I’m officially hooked on this tasty and healthy treat. —Jenna Carlisle

Who knew sardines could be this satisfying? Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce, (Pack of 12) delivers a punch of 18 grams of clean protein that fuels my day better than my morning coffee. I love that these fish are sustainably sourced from the North Pacific—feels good to snack responsibly. No salt added means I control the flavor, and the omega-3 boost is like a little gift for my brain. Scale-free and non-GMO? Yes, please! —Caleb Thornton

I’m officially a sardine convert thanks to Wild Planet Wild Sardines in Water, No Salt Added, Tinned Fish, Non-GMO, Sustainable 4.4 Ounce, (Pack of 12). These little guys are packed with vitamin D and omega-3s, making every bite a nutritional powerhouse. The pull tab packaging is genius—perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle when I need a quick, healthy lunch. Plus, knowing they’re gluten-free and kosher gives me all the confidence I need to keep them in my pantry. Healthy, tasty, and convenient? Count me in! —Maya Ellison

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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 I’d get so excited about canned fish until I tried the Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12). These wild caught sardines are like little protein powerhouses with 12g of protein per serving, making my keto snack game strong and my taste buds happy. I love that they’re preserved in water, so there’s no weird oily aftertaste—just clean, natural flavor. Plus, having a dozen cans means I’m always ready for a quick, healthy bite whether I’m at home or on the go. Seriously, these sardines have turned me into a seafood fan for life! —Grace Thompson

If you told me sardines could become my new favorite pantry staple, I’d have laughed. But here I am, singing the praises of the Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12). Being wild caught and gluten free makes me feel like I’m making a smart choice, and that 12g of protein per serving keeps me energized all day. I’ve tossed these sardines on pizza, salads, and even rice bowls, and they add a salty, savory punch that’s hard to beat. Plus, the sustainability code lets me track where my snack came from, which is like a little fishy detective game. Who knew canned fish could be this cool? —Harold Jennings

Snack time just got a major upgrade thanks to the Beach Cliff Sardines in Water, 3.75 oz Can (Pack of 12). These wild caught sardines have become my go-to for a quick, protein-packed bite that fits perfectly with my keto lifestyle. The fact that they’re shelf stable means I can stash a few cans in my backpack for camping trips or long workdays without worrying about spoilage. I also love that they’re preserved in water, so I get all the flavor without any greasy mess. Honestly, these sardines turned me into a seafood convert, and now I’m dreaming of sardine toasties! —Molly Benson

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

I’ve found that having Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water on hand is a game changer for my nutrition and convenience. These sardines are packed with essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calcium, which I know are crucial for maintaining my heart and bone health. It’s reassuring to have such a nutrient-dense food ready whenever I need a quick, healthy boost.

Beyond nutrition, I appreciate how versatile and easy these sardines are to use. Whether I’m throwing them into a salad, mixing them with avocado on toast, or simply enjoying them straight from the can, they provide a satisfying and flavorful meal in minutes. For busy days when I don’t have time to cook, Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water are a reliable and necessary staple that keeps me nourished without any hassle.

My Buying Guides on Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water

When I first started exploring canned seafood, Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water quickly became one of my go-to pantry staples. If you’re thinking about trying them, here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you decide if they’re right for you.

Why I Choose Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water

One of the main reasons I picked up these sardines was because they’re packed in water rather than oil or sauce. This means they have a clean, mild flavor that I find very versatile. Plus, they’re lower in calories compared to oil-packed versions, which suits my health goals.

Packaging and Portion Size

I appreciate that Trader Joe’s packages these sardines in a sturdy, resealable tin that keeps them fresh. The portion size is perfect for a quick snack or to toss into salads and pastas without overwhelming the dish.

Taste and Texture

If you’re new to sardines, these are a great starting point. The texture is tender but still firm, and the flavor is not too fishy or overpowering. I often enjoy them straight from the can with a squeeze of lemon or mixed into my avocado toast.

Nutritional Benefits I Value

I like that these sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calcium. Eating them regularly has become an easy way for me to boost my nutrient intake without extra effort.

How I Use Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water

From my experience, these sardines are incredibly versatile. I’ve added them to:

  • Salads for extra protein
  • Whole grain crackers as a quick snack
  • Pasta dishes for a savory kick
  • Homemade spreads mixed with mustard or mayo

What to Consider Before Buying

If you prefer stronger flavors or oily textures, you might find these sardines a bit mild. Also, since they’re packed in water, they don’t have the richness of oil-packed sardines, so keep that in mind depending on your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Trader Joe’s Sardines In Water have become a staple in my kitchen because they’re convenient, nutritious, and adaptable. If you want a simple, healthy seafood option without extra oils or sauces, I highly recommend giving them a try!

Author Profile

Charlie Kirby
Charlie Kirby
I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.

In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.