Tinned Sardines in Tomato Sauce is canned in tomato sauce, which adds a little salt (NOVA group 3). The fish is a whole food rich in omega-3 fats, vitamin D and vitamin B12, and these tins are especially high in calcium from the soft, edible bones. It is a source of vitamin B12, vitamin D and selenium. Work out the numbers for any portion and age below, then see the full breakdown.
For meat and fish the numbers that matter most are protein, saturated fat and salt. The tables below set each against age-appropriate guidance.
A tin, drained (about 90g) provides about 16.2g of complete protein, supplying the amino acids the body needs for growth and repair. Because children need less than adults, that portion covers a large share of a younger child's daily protein.
Tinned Sardines in Tomato Sauce is naturally high in fat, at about 9.0g per portion, though most of it is unsaturated. Only around 2.25g is saturated and there is 0g of added fat.
Because tinned sardines in tomato sauce is salted, a portion carries about 0.72g of salt. Children have lower daily salt limits than adults, so it is worth checking against the guidance below.
Percentages are share of the daily Nutrient Reference Value (NRV). Under UK and EU rules a food is a source of a nutrient at 15% NRV per 100g and high in it at 30%.
These tables show how the nutrients compare to daily needs across different ages, using UK Reference Nutrient Intakes (RNIs). This differs from the source of and high in labels above, which use the single adult figure (NRV) set for food packaging. Children's needs are lower, so a portion goes further.
Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell formation and a healthy nervous system, and is found almost only in animal foods. A tin, drained (about 90g) contains 8ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones; oily fish is one of the few natural food sources. A tin, drained (about 90g) contains 4ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Selenium helps protect cells from damage and supports the immune system. A tin, drained (about 90g) contains 45ug. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Phosphorus works with calcium to build strong bones and teeth. A tin, drained (about 90g) contains 378mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth. A tin, drained (about 90g) contains 342mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target.
Iron is needed to make red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body. A tin, drained (about 90g) contains 2.25mg. Because children need less than adults, that same portion covers a bigger share of a younger child's daily target. Girls aged 11 and over and women need more iron (14.8mg) because of menstrual losses.
Lightly. The fish is a whole food, but the tomato sauce adds a little salt, which puts the tin in NOVA group 3. It stays a very nutritious choice, high in calcium from the soft bones.
Nutrition data from McCance and Widdowson and UK FoodData Central, per 100g raw edible portion; values are reference figures and can vary by variety and ripeness. Reference intakes: EU NRVs for labelling and UK RNIs (SACN) for age-based needs. For guidance only.