Canned meat may not be the most glamorous of food products, but it’s a pantry staple that has been around for centuries. Canning meat was first introduced as a way to preserve food during times of scarcity, but over time, it has become a convenient and reliable source of protein for many people. Whether you’re stocking up for an emergency or just looking for a quick and easy meal, canned meat is a great option.
When it comes to canned meat, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, quality is key. Not all canned meat is created equal, and some brands and types are better than others. Additionally, it’s important to consider the nutritional value of the meat and any additives or preservatives that may be included.
We spent hours researching and testing various types of canned meat to identify the best options on the market. From classic canned tuna to more exotic options like canned duck, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each type of canned meat and help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Best Canned Meat
2. Kirkland Signature Roast Beef
3. Swanson White Premium Chunk Canned Chicken Breast in Water
We understand that sometimes you just need a quick and easy meal option that doesn’t require a lot of prep work. That’s where canned meats come in. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed addition to your salad or a hearty ingredient for your favorite pasta dish, canned meats can be a lifesaver in the kitchen. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best canned meats available on Amazon to help you make an informed decision.
HORMEL Chunk Meats
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add protein to your meals, HORMEL Chunk Meats is a great option. It’s fully cooked and ready to eat, making it a convenient ingredient for a variety of dishes.
Pros
- The excess fat and gristle have been trimmed away, making it perfect for a wide range of dishes.
- It’s gluten-free and nutritious, with 9 grams of protein and only 90 calories per serving.
- It’s a great option for emergency food supply or a quick, tasty meal.
Cons
- It doesn’t have the same taste as a baked ham.
- It’s a bit salty for some people’s taste.
- It’s not available in stores, so you have to order it online.
We recently tried HORMEL Chunk Meats and were impressed with its versatility. We used it in split pea soup, and it added a delicious smoky flavor. We also added it to our favorite pasta dish, and it tasted great. The meat chunks were the perfect size and texture for our dishes.
One thing to keep in mind is that it doesn’t taste exactly like a baked ham, but it’s still a tasty option for a quick meal. It’s also a bit salty for some people’s taste, so you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Overall, we would recommend HORMEL Chunk Meats for anyone looking for a convenient and nutritious ingredient for their meals. It’s a great option for emergency food supply and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Kirkland Signature Roast Beef
We highly recommend purchasing the Kirkland Signature Roast Beef for its premium quality and delicious taste.
Pros
- The beef is high-quality top and bottom round, making it tender and flavorful.
- The beef is cooked in beef broth, adding to its rich flavor.
- The pack of four 12-ounce cans is a great value for the price.
Cons
- The slices of beef are small and may not be enough for a full meal.
- The cans are mostly filled with broth, so there may not be enough beef in each can.
- Some customers have reported issues with receiving the full order.
We found that the Kirkland Signature Roast Beef was a great addition to our pantry. The beef was tender and flavorful, and the beef broth added a rich, savory taste. The pack of four 12-ounce cans was a great value for the price, and we appreciated having a quick and easy meal option on hand.
However, we did find that the slices of beef were quite small and may not be enough for a full meal. Additionally, the cans were mostly filled with broth, so there may not be enough beef in each can. Some customers have also reported issues with receiving the full order, so it’s important to double-check your shipment.
Overall, we believe that the Kirkland Signature Roast Beef is a great option for those looking for a quick and easy meal option. Its premium quality and delicious taste make it a pantry staple.
Swanson White Premium Chunk Canned Chicken Breast in Water
If you are looking for a quick and easy way to add chicken to your meals, Swanson White Premium Chunk Canned Chicken Breast in Water is a great option.
Pros
- Ready-to-eat, fully-cooked chicken chunks
- Premium white chicken meat with no antibiotics or added MSG
- 98% fat-free, gluten-free, and an excellent source of protein, with 15 grams in each 3-ounce serving
Cons
- The pull tab can be difficult to open
- The water level in the can can cause spilling
- The price may be too high for those on a fixed income
We recently tried this canned chicken and were impressed with the quality and taste. The chicken chunks are fully cooked and ready to eat, making meal prep a breeze. We appreciated that the chicken is made with simple ingredients, with no antibiotics or added MSG. Plus, it’s gluten-free and 98% fat-free, making it a healthier option for those watching their diet.
We used the canned chicken to make chicken salad and it turned out delicious. The chicken had a nice texture and flavor and worked well in the recipe. We also added it to a stir-fry and it worked well as a protein source.
The only downside we found was that the pull tab on the can can be difficult to open, and the water level can cause spilling. Additionally, the price may be too high for those on a fixed income.
Overall, we would recommend Swanson White Premium Chunk Canned Chicken Breast in Water for those looking for a quick and easy way to add chicken to their meals. It’s a high-quality product that tastes great and is made with simple, healthy ingredients.
Hormel Premium No Salt Added Canned Chunk Chicken Breast in Water
If you are looking for a tasty and nutritious canned meat option, then Hormel Premium No Salt Added Canned Chunk Chicken Breast in Water is a great choice.
Pros
- 100% real meat; fully cooked, ready-to-eat meat chunks
- 98% fat-free; 9 grams of protein per serving
- No refrigeration is necessary until opened; no prep or cleaning is required
Cons
- Some may find the texture to be a bit mushy
- The cans are relatively small, so you may need to use multiple cans for larger meals
- The price point may be a bit higher than other canned meat options
We were pleasantly surprised by the quality and taste of this canned chicken. The meat chunks are juicy and flavorful, and we appreciated the fact that there was no added salt. We found that the chicken worked well in a variety of dishes, from salads to soups to sandwiches.
One of the biggest benefits of this canned chicken is how easy it is to use. Since it is fully cooked and ready to eat, you can simply open the can and add it to your favorite dish. Plus, since it doesn’t require refrigeration until after it’s been opened, it’s a great option to keep on hand for quick and easy meals.
While we did find the texture to be a bit mushy, this wasn’t a dealbreaker for us. We also thought that the cans were a bit small, so you may need to use multiple cans if you are making a larger meal. Additionally, the price point may be a bit higher than other canned meat options, but we think that the quality and taste make it worth it.
Overall, we would definitely recommend Hormel Premium No Salt Added Canned Chunk Chicken Breast in Water to anyone looking for a convenient and tasty canned meat option.
Harvest Creek Pulled Pork 4/12 Oz. Total 48 Oz. Pork 12 Ounce (Pack of 4)
We highly recommend purchasing Harvest Creek Pulled Pork for those who are looking for a quick and easy meal option.
Pros
- The pulled pork is flavorful and tender
- The cans are convenient for storage and quick meals
- The product is affordable
Cons
- Some cans may arrive dented
- The pork may not be as moist as freshly cooked pulled pork
- The product may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions
Harvest Creek Pulled Pork is a great option for those who want to have a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor. The pork is flavorful and tender, making it a great addition to sandwiches, tacos, or even eaten on its own.
The cans are convenient for storage and quick meals, making it a great option for those who are always on the go or do not have the time to cook a full meal. However, some cans may arrive dented, which can affect the quality of the product.
While the pulled pork is flavorful, it may not be as moist as freshly cooked pulled pork. Additionally, the product may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions as it contains pork.
Overall, Harvest Creek Pulled Pork is a great option for those who are looking for a quick and easy meal option that is affordable and flavorful.
Armour Banner Sausage Canned Sausage
If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack or meal, Armour Banner Sausage Canned Sausage might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The sausage is ready to eat straight out of the can, making it a convenient option for on-the-go meals or snacks.
- The pork and chicken sausage is bursting with flavor, making it a tasty addition to breakfast sandwiches or other meals.
- The canned sausages are versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes.
Cons
- Some reviewers have noted that the texture of the sausage can be a bit mushy or goopy.
- The can may not contain as much sausage as you might expect, so it may not be the most cost-effective option.
- The high fat content and nitrates in the sausage may not be ideal for those looking for a healthier option.
In our experience, Armour Banner Sausage Canned Sausage is a decent option for those looking for a quick and easy meal or snack. The sausage is flavorful and versatile, making it a good addition to a variety of recipes. However, the texture can be a bit off-putting for some, and the high fat content and nitrates may not be ideal for those looking for a healthier option. Overall, we would recommend this product for those who prioritize convenience and flavor over health considerations.
Underwood Deviled Ham Meat Spread
If you’re looking for a tasty and easy-to-use meat spread, Underwood Deviled Ham Meat Spread is a great option.
Pros
- The sweet and savory flavor of ham combined with a hint of brown sugar makes for a delicious spread.
- The convenient canned packaging makes it easy to take on-the-go for quick snacks or camping trips.
- It’s versatile and can be used for sandwiches, dips, omelets, and more.
Cons
- The spread is quite salty, which may not be suitable for those watching their sodium intake.
- Some fat may congeal on top of the can, which may not be the most appealing in appearance.
- The spread doesn’t seem to contain pickles, which may be a disappointment for some who prefer a more tangy flavor.
As someone who has tried Underwood Deviled Ham Meat Spread, we recommend it for those who enjoy a sweet and savory flavor in their meat spreads. Its versatility makes it a great addition to any sandwich, dip, or omelet. However, if you’re watching your sodium intake or prefer a more tangy flavor, this may not be the best option for you.
Armour Star Potted Meat
If you’re looking for a quick and easy snack, Armour Star Potted Meat is a great choice. It’s versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, making it a staple for any pantry.
Pros
- The meat is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- The canned meat is ready-to-eat, meaning it doesn’t require any cooking or preparation.
- The 48-pack of 3 oz cans is a great value for the price.
Cons
- Some people may find the texture of the meat to be too soft.
- The meat may not have the best taste when eaten on its own.
- The packaging may arrive damaged, causing some cans to be dented or punctured.
Armour Star Potted Meat is a great option for those who are always on-the-go. The canned meat is perfect for spreading on crackers or using in sandwiches, making it a quick and easy snack. Additionally, the meat is a great addition to recipes when you’re short on time.
One of the great things about Armour Star Potted Meat is that it’s gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Additionally, the canned meat is ready-to-eat, meaning it doesn’t require any cooking or preparation.
However, some people may find the texture of the meat to be too soft, and the meat may not have the best taste when eaten on its own. Additionally, the packaging may arrive damaged, causing some cans to be dented or punctured.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy snack that’s versatile and gluten-free, Armour Star Potted Meat is a great option. The 48-pack of 3 oz cans is a great value for the price, making it a great addition to any pantry.
SPAM Classic, 12 Ounce Can (Pack of 12)
If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use canned meat, SPAM Classic might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- SPAM Classic is fully cooked, which means it’s ready to eat right out of the can, making it a perfect choice for camping trips or quick meals at home.
- With 7 grams of protein and 0 grams of trans fat per serving, SPAM Classic is a healthy source of protein that can help you meet your dietary goals.
- SPAM Classic is shelf-stable, which means it doesn’t require refrigeration until after it’s opened, making it easy to store and use.
Cons
- SPAM Classic might not be the best choice if you’re looking for meat with a more complex flavor profile, as it has a fairly simple taste.
- Some people might be put off by the idea of eating canned meat, as it’s not a common food item in many cultures.
- SPAM Classic can be fairly high in sodium, with 580 milligrams per serving, so it might not be the best choice if you’re trying to reduce your sodium intake.
SPAM Classic is a great choice if you’re looking for versatile and easy-to-use canned meat. It can be eaten hot or cold and can be used in a variety of recipes, from sandwiches to stir-fries. While it might not be the most gourmet choice, it’s a reliable and tasty source of protein that can help you meet your dietary goals.
Iberia Corned Beef
If you’re looking for a tasty and versatile canned meat, then you should definitely try Iberia Corned Beef.
Pros
- Made with premium quality meat for a balanced flavor.
- Specially prepared with beef and savory seasonings for a delicious homemade taste.
- Fully cooked and ready to eat, making it convenient for quick meals or snacks.
Cons
- Contains a high amount of sodium, which may be a concern for some individuals.
- The texture may be too soft for those who prefer firmer meat.
- The can opener key provided may not work properly, requiring the use of an ordinary can opener.
We recently tried Iberia Corned Beef and were impressed by its flavor and versatility. The premium quality meat used in this product gives it a balanced flavor that enhances any dish. We particularly enjoyed using it in breakfast dishes, such as frying it with onions, potatoes, and eggs for a classic breakfast. We also layered thin slices between bread for mouth-watering sandwiches. The possibilities are endless, and we look forward to trying it in other recipes.
One thing to note is that the sodium content is quite high, so it may not be suitable for individuals on a low-sodium diet. Additionally, the texture of the meat may be too soft for those who prefer firmer meat. We also had some difficulty using the can opener key provided, as it did not remove the metal strip properly. However, this was easily remedied with an ordinary can opener.
Overall, we highly recommend Iberia Corned Beef for its delicious taste and convenience. It’s a great addition to any pantry for quick meals or snacks.
Buying Guide
When it comes to purchasing canned meat, there are a few key factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
Type of Meat
First and foremost, you’ll want to decide on the type of meat you want to buy. Some popular options include chicken, beef, pork, and fish. Consider the intended use of the meat – will it be used in a stew, sandwich, or salad? – and choose accordingly.
Ingredients
Take a close look at the ingredients list to ensure the product meets your dietary needs and preferences. For example, if you’re looking for a low-sodium option, make sure the product doesn’t contain excessive amounts of salt. Similarly, if you’re avoiding certain allergens or additives, double-check the label to ensure the product is safe for you to consume.
Quality
Look for canned meat that is of high quality, with a good texture and flavor. Check the expiration date to ensure the product is fresh and hasn’t been sitting on the shelf for too long. If possible, read reviews or ask for recommendations from friends or family members to ensure you’re getting a product that’s worth your money.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the canned meat. While you don’t want to skimp on quality, you also don’t want to overspend unnecessarily. Compare prices across different brands and stores to find the best deal for the product you’re looking for.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can feel confident in your canned meat purchase and enjoy a delicious and convenient meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some healthy canned meat options?
There are many healthy canned meat options available, including canned salmon, tuna, chicken, and turkey. These meats are typically low in fat and high in protein, making them a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Which stores carry the best selection of canned meat?
Many grocery stores carry a wide variety of canned meat options, including popular brands like Hormel, Bumble Bee, and Starkist. However, if you’re looking for a more specialized selection, you may want to check out health food stores or online retailers.
What are some recipes that use canned meat?
Canned meat can be used in a variety of recipes, including soups, stews, casseroles, and sandwiches. Some popular recipes include tuna salad, chicken noodle soup, and beef and vegetable stew.
Is canned meat less nutritious than fresh meat?
Canned meat can be just as nutritious as fresh meat, as long as you choose high-quality brands and look for options that are low in sodium and preservatives. In fact, canned meat can be a great source of protein and other essential nutrients.
Are there any all-natural canned beef options?
Yes, there are a number of all-natural canned beef options available, including grass-fed beef and organic beef. These options are typically free from antibiotics and hormones, and are a great choice for those looking for a more natural and sustainable meat option.
What are the different types of canned meat available?
There are many different types of canned meat available, including chicken, turkey, beef, pork, salmon, and tuna. Some brands also offer more specialized options, such as canned ham or corned beef. When choosing canned meat, it’s important to read the labels and choose options that are low in sodium and preservatives.
