What Is the Smelliest Canned Food?

What Is the Smelliest Canned Food?

Canned food is a convenient and shelf-stable way to enjoy a variety of meals. However, some canned foods are known for their pungent odor. From fish to fermented vegetables, here is a look at some of the smelliest canned foods available.

Tuna Fish
Tuna fish has been found to be one of the smelliest canned foods out there. The strong aroma of tuna is due to its high levels of mercury and other minerals that can be detected when it is opened. Furthermore, tuna fish is usually packed in oil which can make it even more pungent.

Sardines
Similar to tuna, sardines are known for their strong odor that tends to linger long after they’re open. This can be attributed to the high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in sardines which give them their distinct aroma and flavor. Additionally, sardines are usually canned in oil which can make them even more potent when opened.

Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a type of fermented cabbage that has been preserved in brine or vinegar and is commonly used as an ingredient in various dishes. Its distinct smell can be attributed to its fermentation process which produces compounds such as lactic acid and acetic acid, both of which have a very pungent aroma when exposed to air.

Anchovies
Anchovies are small fish that are usually sold packed in oil or salt water and have a very strong odor when opened. The pungent smell of anchovies comes from the high levels of histamine they contain as well as other natural compounds found in the fish itself such as trimethylamine oxide (TMAO).

Conclusion:

When it comes to canned food, there are several options that have a powerful aroma when opened including tuna fish, sardines, sauerkraut and anchovies. These options tend to have higher concentrations of certain compounds such as omega-3 fatty acids, lactic acid and acetic acid which all contribute to their distinct smells.