Who knows what’s inside that can? We do! Read on to find out the inside story

Let’s face it: everyone likes tuna. And at some point or another, you just want a good ol’ tuna sandwich-on-toast.

The problem is that much of the canned tuna here, is, well, just not what we’re used to. We’re looking for filets-in-a-can, tuna with integrity – not just the schwag of the fish that’s leftover when all the good parts have gone elsewhere.

Sigh.

Over time, I’ve conducted my own private comparisons, buying 2-3 different brands of tuna and tasting them side-by-side. But, I thought, time to get serious.

It was easy to assemble a group of volunteers, and we set about the task at hand excitedly, despite the quickly overwhelming smell of fish in the small M! test kitchen (ahem). With eight tunas (and one canned salmon, just because) dumped out of their cans in a row it was easy to see which ones actually contained filets and which, umm, didn’t. All the canned tunas we tested were Yellowfin Tuna. That noted, we set about tasting, with crackers and chips available for palate-cleansing.

In general, it should be noted that tuna packed in oil will have a better texture and less-metallic taste than tuna packed in water. So, you need to balance your desire for less calories (water) with flavor and mouth-feel (oil). Personally, I think moderation in all things is the key, and if you drain your tuna well and only add a little bit of mayonnaise, there’s really no need to fret.

Some of the tunas we tested had different, shall we say, “micro-climates” - the tuna in the top of the can was very different than what was packed further in. The different colors can be attributed to different grades and types of tuna and also, importantly, different cuts of the fish. Just like up north – and unbeknownst to most people - some canned tunas have small amounts of soy protein added for more flavor. All cost about the same, around $11 pesos, with the exception of Unitas and the Dolores Premium, a bit higher (but worth it, said the test panel) at $21.90.

A nice alternative to canned tuna is the smoked tuna or marlin that’s readily available here in Mazatlán – and it’s inexpensive. High in protein and rich in Omega-3 oils, either one is a good choice for your standard tuna salad, dips, spreads or just sliced on a sandwich. You can find it at the mercados, all the grocery stores and in smokehouses around town.

In no particular order, the M! Test Kitchen Official Tuna Tasting results: