Top Four Tunas
As a chef, my favorite tuna has always been the yellowfin packed in olive oil because of its taste and meaty texture. But I now realize that, as a consumer, it is so much more complicated than just good taste.
As a chef, my favorite tuna has always been the yellowfin packed in olive oil because of its taste and meaty texture. But I now realize that, as a consumer, it is so much more complicated than just good taste.
All the tunas on this list are good tasting, but are also high in omega-3s, contain no additives, and were all fished in American or Asian waters, where fishing methods yield a catch with lower mercury levels.
American Tuna Pole Caught Wild Albacore was judged the best overall because of its taste, rich natural oils, low mercury, superior texture, high omega-3s, and because it is cooked only once in the can. It also contains no additives and is caught and packed by fishing families in the mainland United States. It is, however, the most expensive at 83 cents an ounce ($4.99 for a 6-ounce can).
Crown Prince Natural Solid White Albacore Tuna is another rich-tasting option. It is lower in price at $3.69 for a 12-ounce can (44 cents per ounce), but not quite as high in omega-3s. It is packed in spring water, contains no salt or additives, and comes from Thailand.
For the most affordable option, and the milder flavor often preferred by children, choose tongol tuna in water. It's good for family meals such as tuna casseroles or tuna salad sandwiches. Two choices: Trader Joe's Tongol, Chunk Light (6.5 ounces, $1.39, 21 cents per ounce, no additives; from Thailand) and Whole Foods 365 Brand Chunk Light Tongol (6 ounces, $1.39, 34 cents per ounce, with no additives; from Thailand, tested for mercury).
- Aliza Green