Frequently Asked Questions

Health and nutrition

Do sardines benefit the skin?

Yes. Sardines are rich in omega-3 EPA and DHA, selenium and vitamin D — nutrients with a direct impact on skin health. Omega-3 fatty acids reinforce the lipid barrier, reduce inflammation and improve skin texture and hydration. Selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin against free radicals and uneven pigmentation. Vitamin D contributes to cellular renewal and skin immunity.

What is "sardinemaxxing"?

It is a wellness and beauty trend that gained traction on TikTok in 2025-2026, based on regularly including sardines in the diet as an inside-out skincare strategy. The concept is grounded in solid science: sardines are one of the most complete dietary sources of omega-3, selenium and vitamin D, nutrients with proven impact on skin health. In Portugal, the habit of eating sardines predates the trend by many decades.

How often should I eat sardines to benefit my skin?

Scientific literature recommends two to three servings of oily fish per week as part of a balanced diet. There is no established daily dose specifically for skin benefits, but consistency is the most important factor. Canned sardines are a practical way to meet this recommendation without depending on seasonal availability.

Is it healthy to eat tinned fish?

Yes. Tinned fish is a practical source of high-quality protein, omega-3, vitamins (such as D and B12) and minerals. As part of a balanced diet, it contributes to healthy eating.

Does omega-3 survive in tinned fish?

Yes. Omega-3 fatty acids are heat-stable and are largely retained in tinned fish, especially in species like sardine, mackerel and salmon.

Which tinned fish is the healthiest?

Sardine, mackerel and salmon stand out for their high omega-3 and calcium content (especially when eaten with the bones).

Is tinned fish considered ultra-processed?

Tinned fish is processed, not ultra-processed. Because it contains no preservatives, it is healthy and convenient — an excellent option for quick meals, unlike ready-made frozen dishes or cured meats.

Do sardines have scales and bones?

Sardines and small sardines go through a cleaning process that removes most of the scales; even so, it is not possible to guarantee that all of them are removed. As for the bones, don't worry — they become so soft that they melt in your mouth (and they are an important source of calcium).

Storage and safety

How can I tell if a tin has gone off?

Do not consume a tin if it is bulging, leaking, rusty, or if the product has an abnormal smell or taste after opening.

What is the shelf life of tinned fish?

It depends on the fish or shellfish and on the oil or sauce used, but the shelf life ranges from 3 to 5 years (depending on the acidity of the sauce).

How should I store an opened tin?

If you don't finish the tin, transfer the contents to a non-metal container, seal it well, and keep it in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours.

Production and brands

Does tinned fish contain chemical preservatives?

No. Our tins contain no preservatives. Conservation comes from the production method itself: once the sauce (or olive oil) and the fish are inside the tin, it is heat-treated (sterilised) to eliminate microorganisms. The lid is sealed by a double seam, mechanically rolling the rim of the body and the rim of the lid together to form a hermetic seal.

Does 100 Mistérios — owner of José Gourmet, Ati Manel, ABC+ and Maria Organic — have its own factory?

Yes. The cannery is located in Matosinhos (Portugal), in the Porto metropolitan area, Portugal.

How are José Gourmet, Ati Manel, ABC+ and Maria Organic produced?

The factory uses sustainably caught fish whenever possible (under certified rules), always from controlled origin. The production method is the ancient Mediterranean Artisan Method: the fish is handled manually, pre-cooked, with strong human involvement at almost every stage. It is selected and cleaned by hand and pre-cooked outside the tin, so that its flavor is preserved and the olive oil is not diluted by the fish's natural juices. This pre-cooking step makes the final product softer and more enjoyable.

What sets Portuguese gourmet tinned fish apart from the rest?

The main differences lie in the fishing and the production. The Portuguese canning industry strictly observes closed seasons — when fishing is forbidden to allow the fish to reproduce — and Portugal applies very strict catch quotas. On top of that, production is artisanal: the brine is controlled and the fish is cooked outside the tin, allowing excess moisture and fat to be discarded, giving a firm texture and a more concentrated flavor — unlike other methods where the fish is cooked raw inside the tin.

Sustainability and organic

Is tinned fish sustainable? How can I identify sustainable tins?

Yes. Our brands rely on sustainable fishing and meet European quotas and regulations. Look for certification seals and for clear information about the origin of the fish on the label.

What does it mean for tinned fish to be "Organic"?

It means that all the ingredients accompanying the fish (olive oil, tomato, garlic, onion, spices) come from certified organic farming, free of pesticides and chemicals. Although the fish itself is wild (there is no "organic" sea fish), the seal guarantees the purity of all the other ingredients.

Packaging, price and use

Should I throw away the liquid in the tin?

No. The sauces and olive oil used are top quality — don't discard them; enjoy the flavors and the nutritional value they bring.

Why does the packaging look so different from traditional brands?

The contents deserve a matching aesthetic. Each product carries an exclusive illustration by Portuguese artists and illustrators, turning the tin — beyond a product to be eaten — into a collector's piece or a sophisticated gift.

Why are the prices higher than supermarket brands?

The cost reflects four main factors: ingredient quality, sustainable fishing, small-scale artisanal production, and fair pay for local fishermen and producers, supporting ethical trade.

How should I eat tinned fish?

Tinned fish can be eaten straight from the tin or used in recipes such as toasts, salads, pasta dishes or risottos. The gourmet flavors also pair well with light wines and cold starters.

When should I eat tinned fish?

Tinned fish is an excellent choice for many occasions:

• For a healthy, quick meal.
• For a get-together with friends.
• To take along as a practical, portable protein for hikes, walks, boat trips, motorhome travel and camping.