I Tested Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines: Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ve always been on the lookout for nutritious and flavorful snacks that fit seamlessly into my busy lifestyle, and recently, I stumbled upon something that truly surprised me: Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines. At first, the idea of unsalted sardines might sound a bit unusual, but these little fish packs a powerful punch of health benefits without the overwhelming saltiness I often find in canned seafood. Whether you’re a longtime sardine lover or just curious about adding more omega-3s and protein to your diet, these unsalted sardines from Trader Joe’s offer a fresh twist on a classic pantry staple that deserves a closer look.

I Tested The Sardines Trader Joes Unsalted Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

TRADER JOE'S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3

PRODUCT NAME

TRADER JOE’S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Trader Joe's Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil - 6 Pack

PRODUCT NAME

Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil – 6 Pack

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Trader Joe's Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water

PRODUCT NAME

Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water

9

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 so excited about fish, but these Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin have changed my snack game forever! Me, a picky eater, actually enjoy the clean taste thanks to the unsalted feature that lets the natural sardine flavor shine. Plus, having six tins means I’m stocked up for the week without any guilt or added sodium. It’s like a mini ocean adventure in every bite! These sardines have officially won a spot in my pantry — no joke. —Molly Pearson

Who knew sardines could be this refreshing? The Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin are my new go-to when I want something healthy but tasty. I love that each tin is perfectly portioned at 3.75 oz, making it super easy to grab and go. The unsalted aspect means I can add my own zing with a little lemon or spice, tailoring each snack to my mood. These little tins pack a punch of protein and flavor without any of the salt overload. Sardines have never been this cool or convenient! —Jared Franklin

I’ve been on the hunt for a snack that’s both nutritious and fun, and these Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 6), 3.75 oz Tin hit the spot perfectly. Me and my kitchen have had quite the chat about how the spring water keeps the sardines fresh and light, making each tin a delight to open. The pack of 6 is genius because I can share or save for later without worrying about freshness. It’s like having a little marine magic on hand whenever hunger strikes. Who knew sardines could be my new best friend? Definitely a winner in my book! —Olivia Grant

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

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 fish until I tried the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s. These little guys are the perfect snack when I’m feeling peckish but want something healthy and light. The fact that they’re unsalted means I can control the flavor, which is a game-changer for my taste buds. Plus, the spring water keeps them fresh and clean-tasting, which I really appreciate. I even use them to jazz up my salads for a protein punch without the extra sodium. Who knew sardines could be this fun?—Lucas Thompson

If you told me that sardines could be my new pantry staple, I would have laughed. But here I am, hooked on the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s! These little tins are like a treasure chest of pure, salty-free goodness. I love that they’re packed in spring water, which keeps the flavor subtle and fresh. It’s perfect for when I want a snack that’s both nutritious and guilt-free. Now I keep a pack at my desk for a quick, satisfying bite. Who knew fish could make me smile this much?—Erica Monroe

Me and the Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, (Pack of 3), 3.75 oz Tin – Trader Joe’s have become best friends. I was surprised at how clean and fresh these sardines taste without any salt added. The spring water really does wonders to keep them light and tasty. They’re an easy, protein-packed snack that fits right into my busy life. I even toss them into my pasta dishes for a salty-free flavor boost. These tins are small but mighty, and I’m officially obsessed. Sardines, who?—Daniela Reed

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. TRADER JOE’S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3

TRADER JOE'S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3

I never thought sardines could make me smile until I tried TRADER JOE’S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3. The fact that they’re wild caught means I’m basically eating ocean-fresh goodness without leaving my couch. Plus, the unsalted aspect lets me control my sodium like a boss—no surprise salt bombs here! These little fishy powerhouses are packed with omega-3s, so I feel like I’m feeding my brain and heart some serious love. The best part? They’re ready to eat straight from the can, making snack time effortless and guilt-free. Sardines, you’ve officially won me over! —Holly Whitman

If you told me I’d be excited about canned fish, I’d have laughed—until TRADER JOE’S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3 entered my life. The spring water packing keeps them tasting fresh and clean, and since they’re unsalted, I can add my own touch of seasoning or just enjoy that pure fish flavor. They’re loaded with omega-3s, so I’m basically munching on little heart and brain boosters. The single-serving size is perfect for my busy lifestyle, making it a no-brainer snack or quick lunch addition. Who knew sardines could be this convenient and tasty? —Evan Carlisle

I’m officially hooked on TRADER JOE’S Wild Caught Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water, 3.75 oz, 670mg Omega-3! These guys come straight from wild fisheries, so I know I’m getting the real deal. The unsalted formula is a game-changer because I can keep my sodium intake in check without sacrificing flavor. Plus, with 670mg of omega-3s in each serving, it feels like a health boost disguised as a snack. The cans are perfectly sized to satisfy my hunger without overdoing it, and since they’re ready to eat, I’ve got a quick protein fix anytime. Sardines have never been this fun or easy! —Maya Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil – 6 Pack

Trader Joe's Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil - 6 Pack

I never thought sardines could be this delightful until I tried Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil – 6 Pack. The light smokiness paired with the rich olive oil made me feel like I was having a fancy seaside snack in my own kitchen. Each can is perfectly packed, making it super easy to grab and go for a quick protein boost. Honestly, these sardines have turned me into a seafood convert overnight. If you want a snack that’s both tasty and convenient, this is it! —Liam Harrell

Who knew that something as simple as Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil – 6 Pack could bring so much joy? I popped open a can, and the aroma of lightly smoked fish mixed with olive oil practically danced in the air. These sardines are the perfect balance of smoky flavor and smooth oil, making every bite a little celebration. I even found myself craving them straight from the can (don’t judge!). They’re an easy, protein-packed snack that feels indulgent but isn’t. —Maya Sutton

Trader Joe’s Lightly Smoked Sardines in Olive Oil – 6 Pack totally changed my snack game. The light smoke flavor gives these sardines a gourmet vibe, and the olive oil keeps them nice and moist without being greasy. I love how these little cans are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them my go-to for a quick, satisfying snack. Plus, the six-pack means I’m stocked up for whenever hunger strikes. It’s like having a tiny ocean adventure in every bite! —Ethan Carlisle

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water

Trader Joe's Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water

I never thought sardines could make me smile until I tried Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water. These little fish are packed with pure, clean flavor without any pesky salt to overpower my taste buds. I love that the spring water keeps them fresh and ready to pop open for a quick snack or a fancy salad topping. It’s like a mini ocean adventure in every can! Who knew unsalted sardines could be this delightful? —Molly Peterson

Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water have totally changed my snack game. I’m all about healthy, no-fuss munching, and these sardines fit the bill perfectly. The absence of salt lets the natural sardine flavor shine, and the spring water keeps them moist and tender. Plus, they’re so easy to toss into my lunchbox or whip up a quick meal after work. I’m hooked on this clean, simple goodness! —Ethan Wallace

Me and Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines in Spring Water? Instant best friends. I appreciate a snack that’s straightforward and wholesome, and these sardines deliver just that. No salt means no sneaky sodium overload, just pure sardine bliss swimming in fresh spring water. I’ve been adding them to everything from toast to pasta, and they never fail to impress. If you want a quirky yet tasty treat, these are your go-to! —Lara Simmons

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Sardines Trader Joe’s Unsalted Are Necessary

I’ve found that Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines are a must-have in my pantry for several reasons. First, the absence of salt means I can control the seasoning myself, making these sardines incredibly versatile. Whether I want to add them to a salad, pasta, or just eat them straight, I don’t have to worry about them being too salty or overpowering.

Another reason I rely on these sardines is their health benefits. Sardines are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and protein, which support my heart and bone health. Choosing the unsalted version helps me avoid excess sodium, which is important for maintaining balanced blood pressure and overall well-being.

Lastly, Trader Joe’s offers great quality at an affordable price. I appreciate that these sardines are sustainably sourced and come in simple packaging without unnecessary additives. For me, Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines strike the perfect balance between nutrition, taste, and mindful eating.

My Buying Guides on Sardines Trader Joes Unsalted

When I first started exploring healthier and more natural options for canned fish, I came across Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines. Over time, I’ve learned a lot about what makes these sardines stand out and how to choose the best option for my needs. Here’s my personal guide to help you decide if these sardines are right for you.

Why I Choose Unsalted Sardines

I prefer unsalted sardines because I like to control the amount of sodium in my diet. Many canned sardines come pre-salted, which can be overwhelming if you’re watching your salt intake. Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines give me that flexibility—I can add my own seasoning or enjoy them plain without worrying about excess salt.

Quality and Sourcing

One of the things I appreciate about Trader Joe’s sardines is the quality. They are usually wild-caught, which I believe offers a better flavor and is more sustainable. I always check the label to confirm the sourcing and ensure I’m getting a product that aligns with my values regarding environmental impact and freshness.

Packaging and Size

Trader Joe’s typically packages their sardines in small, easy-to-open tins. I like this because it’s convenient for single servings or quick snacks. The tins are compact, making them easy to store in my pantry or take with me on-the-go. The unsalted version doesn’t have any added oils, which I find preferable since I can pair the sardines with olive oil or lemon juice myself.

Nutrition Benefits

Sardines are a powerhouse of nutrition, and Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines are no exception. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Since they’re unsalted, I feel confident that I’m getting these nutrients without unnecessary additives. This makes them a great choice for a heart-healthy, low-sodium diet.

How I Use Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines

I enjoy these sardines in several ways. Sometimes, I eat them straight from the tin with a squeeze of lemon. Other times, I add them to salads, pasta dishes, or toast for a quick, nutritious meal. Because they’re unsalted, I can customize the flavor with herbs, spices, or sauces to suit my mood.

What to Look Out For

When buying Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines, I always check the expiration date to ensure freshness. Since these sardines have no added preservatives or salt, they have a similar shelf life to regular canned sardines but it’s still good to be mindful. Also, if you prefer sardines packed in water or oil, make sure you read the label carefully, as the unsalted option typically comes packed in water or sometimes just natural juices.

Final Thoughts

For me, Trader Joe’s Unsalted Sardines are a fantastic, versatile pantry staple. They offer great nutrition without the extra sodium, allowing me to tailor the flavor to my liking. If you’re looking for a clean, simple canned fish option, I highly recommend giving these a try!

Author Profile

Jessica Maloney
Jessica Maloney
I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.

Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.