Home / Lifestyle / Tinned Fish: 2026's Trendiest Food?
Tinned Fish: 2026's Trendiest Food?
9 Mar
Summary
- Gourmet tinned fish now commands prices up to £12.50 per tin.
- Influencers and online reviewers fuel the unexpected resurgence of canned seafood.
- High-end options offer delicate, buttery textures unlike cheap supermarket varieties.
Once relegated to the back of cupboards, tinned fish is making a significant comeback and is anticipated to be one of the trendiest foods of 2026. This resurgence sees premium canned seafood now retailing for as much as £12.50, a stark contrast to the typical price of less than a pound for standard varieties.
Online influencers and dedicated reviewers have played a crucial role in this transformation. Marcus Ansell, known as 'Tinned Fish Reviews,' has garnered over 1.3 million followers on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram by showcasing the diverse and exciting world of canned seafood beyond basic tuna.
Ansell emphasizes that high-end tinned fish offers a distinct experience, featuring delicate, buttery textures and a lack of metallic taste, unlike their cheaper counterparts. These luxury items are presented as special treats, making the higher price point more justifiable for consumers seeking a gourmet experience.
This trend extends to unique preparation methods, such as the viral technique of setting fire to a paper towel atop an opened sardine can to gently smoke the fish. Influencers like Ben Slator have demonstrated this method, describing the result as surprisingly delicious barbecued fish.
Retailers like Marks & Spencer and Waitrose are responding by offering more upscale options, including high-priced sardine tins and anchovy fillets. Even some US consumers are reportedly importing specific UK-sourced tinned mackerel due to its popularity and perceived quality, indicating a growing international appreciation for this rediscovered delicacy.
