Sardines

Sardines, also known as “pilchards”, are small oily fish that belong to the same family as herring and anchovies. These are common names for various species of small, oily forage fish in the herring family.

The term ‘sardine’ was first used in English during the early 15th century; a somewhat uncertain etymology says it comes from the Italian island of Sardinia, around which sardines were once supposedly abundant. The terms ‘sardine’ and ‘pilchard’ are not precise, and what is meant often depends on the region. Typically  “sardine” is a younger version of the “pilchard”, changing their name once they reach two years old or reach a larger size.

They are a seasonal catch, you can look for them on our counter from late Spring to Autumn. We usually offer them as whole or as fillets. Check the labels on our counter to see where a particular catch has come from. They are extremely versatile and can be fried, grilled, smoked, salted or cured and as a result are popular in many different cuisines around the world.

Healthy Sardines

Sardines are not just tasty they are a very healthy food. Small in size however, they make a great addition to a balanced diet, as they are low in saturated fat and calories, but high in protein. They also offer a good array of vitamins and minerals.

Sardines are rich in numerous nutrients, in particular they are a great concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins which are recognised as being important for heart and brain health.

A small serving of sardines once a day can provide up to 13% of the RDA (recommended daily allowance) value of vitamin B2, roughly one-quarter of the RDA of niacin, and about 150% of the RDA of vitamin B12. All B vitamins help to support proper nervous system function and are used for energy metabolism, or converting food into energy. Also, sardines are high in the major minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, potassium, and some trace minerals such as iron and selenium. Sardines are also a natural source of marine omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular disease

Sardines Are A Recommended Sustainable Fish

Shoals of sardines are quite plentiful, they are found in the waters around the UK . They are a fast growing fish which means that stocks recover quickly which along with fishing management makes them a good sustainable choice. In the summer months they are often caught in the waters between Cornwall and Brittany.

Good Eating

Easy to prepare, quick to cook and thoroughly delicious to eat. Sardines make a good light supper or alfresco lunch. When the weather is good they cook very well on a hot BBQ. We have some good recipes and cooking tips below:

Sardine Recipes