PRODUCT & INGREDIENTS
From fish species to sauces, bones to cooking, everything about what makes our sardines iconic.
What kind of sardines are these?
Only the best: Sardina pilchardus, wild-caught in the cold Atlantic near Portugal and Spain.
Why do they taste so good?
Cold waters = slow fish = more healthy fats = rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
What’s in the can?
Fish, olive oil, maybe a spicy or tomato twist. No weird stuff. Just tradition.
Are the bones edible?
Yes! Soft, safe, and full of calcium. Crunchy? Nope. Just tender goodness.
PACKAGING & ORDERING
BPA-NI explained, storage tips, how to buy, and what’s coming next.
Can I buy Iconic Sardines online?
Not directly. Drop us a message via our email, we’ll guide you through it.
How long do sardines last?
Up to 5 years sealed. Once opened, keep them covered in sauce, chill them, and eat within 48 hours.
Do you sell merch or limited editions?
Limited-edition sleeves? Yes. Merch? Not yet. But something tasty is cooking.
Who designs your packaging?
All designs by Luís Mendonça. See more at gemeoluis.com.
HEALTH & NUTRITION
Nutrients, mercury levels, diets, and safety for kids and moms, the health scoop.
Are sardines healthy?
They’re tiny powerhouses: protein, omega-3s, vitamin D, calcium, iron , all in one bite.
Safe for pregnancy and kids?
Yes and yes. Low mercury, high nutrients. Great for growing bellies and little ones.
What about mercury and microplastics?
We test regularly. Mercury is way below limits. Guts (where microplastics hide) are removed.
Keto, paleo, gluten-free?
Plain ones in olive oil? Perfect. Saucy ones? Check the carbs. Gluten? May contain traces.
SUSTAINABILITY & PACKAGING
Fishing practices, recyclable packaging, and BPA-free cans, our ethical promise.
Are your sardines sustainably fished?
Yes. Only from certified or MSC-assessed purse-seine fisheries.
Do you follow fishing seasons?
Absolutely. We fish only when the sea says it’s okay, April to December.
Are the cans recyclable?
Totally. Tin and cardboard, both ready for the recycling bin.
What’s BPA-NI?
It means we don’t intentionally use BPA in our cans. EU food-safe and proud.
OTHER COMMON QUESTIONS
Gutting, oil vs. water, and whether sardines can be your daily catch.
Are the sardines gutted before canning?
Yes. We remove the digestive tract but keep the fish whole.
Oil or water, which is better?
Oil-packed = more flavor and tenderness. Water’s lighter, but less rich.
Is it safe to eat sardines every day?
Yes, in moderation. Low mercury, high nutrients. A smart daily catch.
Why are there more sardines in some cans?
We pack by weight, not count. Bigger fish = fewer per can. No mixing sizes.
