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Dealing with Tuna: Shifting from Canned to Pouches  

Adding variety to your menu could be a great way to gain a new following. Tuna is ordered and packed in a variety of forms such as in flakes or chunks. Tuna is an excellent addition to any menu, giving a much-needed break from pork and beef. Tunisian salads, pasta, and more. Luckily enough, tuna is in demand as a great alternative to getting protein from regular meat products with its lower sodium count and amount of omega-3 fats being the preference of healthier customers.

Ordering tuna in pouches can prove to be a little pricey compared to the canned format that you’re used to, but going for the change to bulk order vacuum-sealed bags is a better investment of your money. Here is a brief overview of pouched tuna and why you should make the shift from canned to pouched.

Tuna in pouches

Supermarkets often have tuna products in either pouched or canned packaging. To preserve its flavour and to keep it from growing any bacteria, tuna is stocked in cans or pouches. Some brands offer the versatility of both to their customers while others strictly stick to one form of packaging. Though there is little to no difference in the quality of tuna after packing, there are some significant changes that can add up in the long run.

Tuna pouches made from polymer film, resembling military rations, leave the vacuumed bag to be affected by temperature more quickly; canned tuna counters this effect by having water inside the can which prevents air that could lead to spoilage inside the container. Compared to the metal containers of canned tuna, pouches are more straightforward to stock but are more susceptible to environmental conditions.

Difference in serving

Due to its packaging procedure, the consistency of the meat varies. Canned tuna usually has larger chunks that are kept intact by the solid frame of the can. Pouched products typically contain smaller pieces of fish with a softer texture due to the nature of the container being fluid and lacking hard surfaces to protect the meat inside. Because pouched tuna is comparatively drier compared to canned tuna, it has less moisture making it not the best choice for fresh meals such as salads, sandwiches, and the like.

The verdict

The difference in packing makes a slight difference in taste that can be seen in pouched tuna compared to canned tuna. Depending on the dishes that they are used in, one may be better than the other. If you’re looking for consistency, the better choice logistically is to go for pouched tuna. The bags take up less space and can be arranged depending on the orientation of your pantry. Canned goods offer more protection from the weather, but the form and weight of the metal case can work to your disadvantage. Pouch tuna is more expensive for a reason, and it’s because you receive more meat compared to canned tuna that has a considerable amount of its net weight in water.

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