With inflation driving up grocery prices, Aldi remains a go-to for budget-friendly canned meats that don’t skimp on quality. From pantry staples to emergency provisions, Aldi’s canned meat selection offers variety at unbeatable prices.
To help you make the best choices, we’ve ranked Aldi’s canned meats from worst to best, drawing from taste tests, nutritional analysis, and comparisons with leading brands. This guide includes pricing (where available), taste test insights, what to buy or skip, and what Aldi fans are saying about these products.
Contents
- 1 7. Northern Catch Chunk Light Tuna in Oil $0.99/5 oz
- 2 6. Northern Catch Sardines in Soybean Oil $1.09/4.25 oz
- 3 5. Northern Catch Sardines in Mustard Sauce $1.09/3.75 oz
- 4 4. Northern Catch Solid White Albacore Tuna in Water $1.75/5 oz
- 5 3. Brookdale Chunk Chicken Breast $2.75/12.5 oz
- 6 2. Brookdale Corned Beef $3.09/14 oz
- 7 1. Northern Catch Wild Caught Pink Salmon $3.29/14.75 oz
- 8 What Aldi Fans Think
- 9 Summary
7. Northern Catch Chunk Light Tuna in Oil $0.99/5 oz
Taste Test: This wild-caught tuna offers a decent protein punch (33g per can) but is packed in soybean oil, which detracts from its appeal. The chunk light variety is less flavorful than solid white tuna, and the oily texture feels heavy.
Why Skip: The soybean oil and less palatable flavor profile make this a less desirable option for tuna lovers.
6. Northern Catch Sardines in Soybean Oil $1.09/4.25 oz
Taste Test: These wild-caught sardines are rich in healthy omega-3 fats and protein but are hindered by their soybean oil packing. They compare well to brands like Chicken of the Sea in appearance and nutrition but lack a standout flavor due to the oil.
Why Skip: The soybean oil overshadows the sardines’ natural taste, making them less enjoyable unless you’re accustomed to this packing medium.
5. Northern Catch Sardines in Mustard Sauce $1.09/3.75 oz
Taste Test: These sardines benefit from mustard sauce, which masks the fishy taste and adds a tangy, hot dog-like flavor. They’re comparable to Beach Cliff sardines, with a similar ingredient list and taste. However, additives in the sauce keep them from ranking higher.
Why Buy or Skip: A decent choice for sardine fans who enjoy mustard sauce, but the additives may deter those seeking cleaner ingredients.
4. Northern Catch Solid White Albacore Tuna in Water $1.75/5 oz
Taste Test: This wild-caught albacore tuna is packed in water, offering a cleaner taste than its oil-packed counterpart. With 28g of protein per can, it outperforms StarKist (26g) and has a better texture and flavor than chunk light tuna. However, higher mercury levels in albacore are a drawback.
Why Buy: A solid option for tuna salads or sandwiches, especially for those prioritizing protein and low fat.
3. Brookdale Chunk Chicken Breast $2.75/12.5 oz
Taste Test: This canned chicken divides opinions. Some find it dry with a jelly-like broth and off-putting smell, reminiscent of pet food. Others praise its versatility and protein content (44g per can), noting it tastes similar to Kirkland’s canned chicken (45g protein). It’s farm-raised, with omega-6 fats and minor additives.
Why Buy or Skip: Skip if the smell or texture bothers you, but buy for budget-friendly recipes like casseroles or salads.
2. Brookdale Corned Beef $3.09/14 oz
Taste Test: This Brazilian-sourced corned beef is a standout, offering a rich, savory flavor with 84g of protein per can. It compares favorably to Great Value and Kroger, with similar calories (780 per can) and fat (48g). Its saltiness (485mg per serving) pairs well with potatoes or eggs, making it versatile for hearty meals.
Why Buy: A budget-friendly, flavorful option for corned beef lovers, perfect for breakfast hashes or sandwiches.
1. Northern Catch Wild Caught Pink Salmon $3.29/14.75 oz
Taste Test: The top pick, this wild-caught pink salmon boasts a clean ingredient list (salmon and salt) and 550 calories per can with 85g of protein. Its omega-3 fats are healthier than those in beef or chicken, and it compares well to Double Q salmon. While it requires cooking for palatability (e.g., salmon patties), its flavor and quality shine.
Why Buy: The best value for its high protein, healthy fats, and competitive price, ideal for nutritious meals.
What Aldi Fans Think
Aldi fans praise the value and quality of Northern Catch Wild Caught Pink Salmon, often highlighting its clean ingredients and versatility in recipes like salmon patties or salads. Brookdale Corned Beef also garners positive feedback for its rich flavor and affordability, with fans comparing it to pricier brands like Libby’s. However, the chunk light tuna in oil receive criticism for their unappealing textures and flavors, with some fans joking about their pet food-like qualities. Overall, Aldi’s canned meats are celebrated for their budget-friendly prices, but fans recommend sticking to the salmon and corned beef for the best experience.
Summary
Aldi’s canned meats offer exceptional value, with prices ranging from $1.25 to $3.99 for high-protein options. The Northern Catch Wild Caught Pink Salmon stands out for its health benefits and clean ingredients, while Brookdale Corned Beef impresses with its savory flavor. Avoid the oil-packed tuna due to their poor taste and texture. For Aldi shoppers, these canned meats provide quality and affordability, making them perfect for stocking pantries or preparing for emergencies—just choose wisely to avoid the duds.
