What major canned tuna varieties are most like Trader Joes tuna?

January 21, 2025 9:24 AM

I really like Trader Joes' solid light yellowfin in oil and solid white albacore in oil. Whenever I buy any other brands (or other varieties of TJ tuna), I'm disappointed. Which non-TJ tuna should I be trying?

I'm particularly interested in mass market brands of tuna that are widely available in the US, so that I'd probably be able to find it at the corner store.

I'm afraid I can't describe exactly what I like about these two particular versions of canned tuna more than the others, but if it's similar to my two faves, I'll probably like it!

The way I eat canned tuna most often is as a tuna salad with pickled or fresh hot peppers, chopped onion, and mayo - either on a sandwich or by itself.

posted by moonmilk to Food & Drink (5 answers total)

The closest I’ve found is Genova brand, yellowfin or albacore both packed in olive oil. Target, Walmart, and grocery stores carry it but not sure what kind of corner store you have!
posted by stellaluna at 9:33 AM on January 21 [5 favorites]

I was going to say Genova too. You can often find it for less online. Costco sometimes has it online (never in my store though) for a good price and sometimes it goes on sale at Walmart or Target.
posted by HotToddy at 3:17 PM on January 21

Costco in New Jersey does have Genova solid yellowfin in oil in the store. Their in-store stock seems to vary by region and specific store location.
posted by mollweide at 7:38 PM on January 21

Response by poster: Thanks! I have no access to Costco or Walmart, but I'll watch out for Genova tuna in local stores, or mail order it from Target if I have to!
posted by moonmilk at 7:09 PM on January 22

Response by poster: This isn't a great way to find out, but it does appear that Trader Joes and Genova share a tuna supplier!
posted by moonmilk at 12:41 PM on February 11