SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna Lowest Mercury scores 69/100 (Good), primarily driven by its high protein content and minimal processing, despite a moderate sodium level.
This product received a FoodScore of 69/100, indicating a good nutritional profile.
A 3 oz serving provides 28.24g of protein, contributing significantly to daily needs.
The sodium content is 352.94mg per 100g, which is a moderate amount for a prepared food.
Classified as NOVA 2, it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient.
This tuna can be a convenient source of protein for quick meals or snacks.
Scores +22 points above the prepared category average (47/100 across 231 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
28.24g
56% of Daily Value
Added sugar
0g
0% of Daily Value
Sodium
352.94mg
15% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Protein (28.2g)+10
Micronutrients (Vitamin D)+2
Minimally processed (NOVA 2)+8
−
What holds it back
Sodium (352.9mg)-1
Why it scores 69
SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna Lowest Mercury achieves a FoodScore of 69/100, reflecting its strong nutritional attributes with a minor penalty. The primary positive contributor is its substantial protein content, providing 28.24g per 100g, which earns a significant bonus. Additionally, the product receives a bonus for its minimal processing, classified as NOVA 2, meaning it consists of whole foods that have been slightly altered for preservation or culinary use. The presence of SKIPJACK TUNA as the sole ingredient supports this classification. It also provides a modest amount of Vitamin D, contributing a small micronutrient bonus. The main detractor is its sodium content, at 352.94mg per 100g, which results in a minor penalty. Compared to a home-cooked version of tuna using whole ingredients, this product offers similar nutritional benefits with the convenience of being pre-prepared, though the sodium level is higher than plain, unseasoned tuna.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in safe catch elite wild tuna lowest mercury actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Excellent Source of Protein
This product is an excellent source of protein, providing 28.24g per 100g serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting immune function. Including adequate protein in your diet can help with satiety, potentially aiding in weight management, and is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, especially as part of an active lifestyle. The protein in SAFE CATCH tuna is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
Good Source of Vitamin D
SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna contributes 10% of the Daily Value for Vitamin D per 100g serving. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone health by helping the body absorb calcium and phosphorus. It also supports immune function and may be involved in mood regulation. Many Americans do not get enough Vitamin D, making dietary sources like tuna a valuable contribution to meeting daily requirements, particularly for those with limited sun exposure.
Minimally Processed Food
This tuna is classified as a NOVA 2 food, indicating it is a minimally processed culinary ingredient. This means it is essentially a whole food, SKIPJACK TUNA, that has undergone basic processing like canning to make it ready for consumption or use in cooking. Consuming minimally processed foods generally aligns with dietary guidelines, as they typically retain more of their natural nutrient profile and are free from added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives often found in ultra-processed foods.
SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna Lowest Mercury scores 69/100 (Good), primarily driven by its high protein content and minimal processing, despite a moderate sodium level.
How to eat it
Canned tuna like SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna is a versatile and convenient pantry staple. It's commonly eaten as part of a sandwich, salad, or mixed into casseroles. A typical serving size is 3 oz, which provides a substantial amount of protein for a meal or snack.
Combine with fresh vegetables like celery, bell peppers, and onions, and a light vinaigrette for a nutrient-dense tuna salad.
Use in wraps or lettuce cups with avocado and a squeeze of lemon for a quick, balanced lunch.
Incorporate into pasta dishes or rice bowls with plenty of fiber-rich vegetables to create a more complete meal.
Consider using it as a protein topping for green salads, which can help increase satiety and nutrient intake.
Things to keep in mind
This product is generally considered safe for most individuals. As with all fish products, individuals with a fish allergy should avoid consumption. The brand emphasizes its low mercury content, which addresses a common concern with tuna consumption, particularly for pregnant women and young children. However, the sodium content of 352.94mg per 100g is moderate; individuals monitoring their sodium intake for conditions like hypertension should account for this when planning meals. There are no artificial additives, added sugars, or unhealthy fats to note as specific cautions in the ingredient list.
Yes, SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna is considered a healthy option, scoring 69/100 (Good) on FoodScore. It is an excellent source of protein and provides Vitamin D, with minimal processing. The brand also focuses on testing for lower mercury levels, which can be a consideration for frequent fish consumers.
How does SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna compare to other canned tuna brands?
Compared to many other canned tuna brands like StarKist or Bumble Bee, SAFE CATCH distinguishes itself by its rigorous mercury testing for each fish. Nutritionally, it offers a similar high protein content but may have varying sodium levels depending on the specific product and added ingredients in other brands. Always check the nutrition label for specific comparisons.
What does 'Lowest Mercury' mean for this product?
The 'Lowest Mercury' claim by SAFE CATCH indicates that each fish is tested to ensure it meets a strict mercury limit, which is significantly lower than the FDA's action limit. This can be a reassuring factor for consumers concerned about mercury exposure from seafood, allowing for more frequent consumption within dietary guidelines.
What is a recommended portion size for SAFE CATCH tuna?
The recommended serving size for SAFE CATCH Elite Wild Tuna is 3 oz (85g). This portion provides 28.24g of protein and is a good amount for a single meal or snack. Consuming this amount contributes significantly to your daily protein needs without excessive calories.
Can I eat SAFE CATCH tuna every day?
Given its low mercury testing, SAFE CATCH tuna can be consumed more frequently than some other tuna products. However, it's generally recommended to include a variety of protein sources in your diet. While a good option, balancing it with other fish, lean meats, legumes, and plant-based proteins ensures a broader spectrum of nutrients.