What products can be processed from sardines

Nutritional value (very high):

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Rich in EPA and DHA, very beneficial for heart health, brain function and anti-inflammation.
• Protein: A high-quality complete protein source.
• Vitamin D: One of the few foods rich in vitamin D, essential for bone health and the immune system.
• Vitamin B12: Very rich in content, important for the nervous system and blood cell formation.
• Calcium: Canned sardines, especially those eaten with bones, are a good source of calcium (the bones become soft and edible during processing).
• Selenium, phosphorus: Important minerals.

Sardines are made into a variety of products due to their large yield, rich nutrition and easy processing:

1. Canned products (the most common and main form):

• Sardine with vegetable oil: The most classic product, sardines are cleaned, headed and gutted, steamed and canned, and injected with vegetable oil. The bones become soft and edible.
• Sardine with tomato sauce: Similar to vegetable oil, but injected with tomato sauce.

2. Frozen products:

Whole round or processed (headed and gutted) sardines can be quickly frozen and sold, which is convenient for transportation and storage for subsequent cooking or further processing.

3. Smoked products:

• Hot-smoked sardines: After being marinated, they are smoked at a higher temperature, and the fish meat is fully cooked and has a softer texture. They are often vacuum-packed or canned.
• Cold-smoked sardines: Smoked for a long time at a lower temperature, the fish meat is not fully cooked, the texture is firmer, and it tastes like sashimi, and is often used as an appetizer. The price is usually higher.