Oysters are super delicious but they are not available everywhere, at all times. Moreover, the good ones tend to be quite expensive. If you crave oysters regularly but do not want to spend a hefty sum of money on them, you might be interested to grab a pack of canned oysters. The best canned oysters provide you with fresh, flavorful oysters that you can add to your seafood meals easily. Moreover, canned oysters usually do not need to be cooked or grilled, which saves you time and effort.
Best Pick
he Crown Prince Natural Smoked Oysters with Red Chili Pepper is our best pick because the oysters are flavorful, have a firm texture, and do not give off a bad odor. These oysters not only make a great snack but also go well with sandwiches, pizzas, soups, and lots more.
Budget Pick
The Roland Foods Premium Naturally Smoked Medium Oysters in Oil is our budget pick because the oysters do not include any artificial additives, provide a high source of protein, and are sourced from cold waters of the Pacific ocean.
Quick Comparison: Top 12 Best Canned Oysters
| Product Name | No. of Packs | Protein (grams) | Calories Per Serving | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crown Prince Natural Smoked Oysters with Red Chili Pepper | 18 | 11 | 160 | A |
| Roland Foods Premium Naturally Smoked Medium Oysters in Oil | 5 | 8 | 70 | A |
| Ocean Prince Gourmet Whole Oysters with Carrots | 18 | 6 | 110 | B |
| Crown Prince Smoked Oysters in Cottonseed Oil | 18 | 14 | 170 | A |
| Reese Large Smoked Oysters | 10 | 15 | 180 | B |
| BRUNSWICK Fancy Smoked Oysters | 12 | 13 | 130 | A |
| MW Polar Boiled Oyster | 12 | 7 | 70 | A |
| Pacific Pearl Smoked Oysters in Spring Water | 12 | 18 | 110 | B |
| BUMBLE BEE Fancy Smoked Oysters | 6 | 11 | 110 | A |
| Chicken of the Sea Oysters | 6 | 8 | 60 | A |
| Geisha Fancy Smoked Oysters In Cottonseed Oil | 3 | 9 | 120 | A |
| Ekone Oysters Company Oysters Smoked Habenero | 1 | 16 | 180 | A |
1. Crown Prince Natural Smoked Oysters with Red Chili Pepper
Highlighted Features
Canned oysters from Crown Prince never fail to disappoint. You will be provided with 18 cans 3-ounce cans that are packed with flavorful oysters that taste almost like the ones you have in 5-star restaurants. This is a verified non-GMO project which means that all ingredients are fresh and healthy, and safe for consumption.
These canned oysters are an excellent source of iron, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. Each can contains 11g of protein, 15% iron, and 1,105mg of omega-3 fatty acids. The oysters have been smoked and then finely mixed with pure olive oil and chili pepper. Moreover, the cans have pull-top lids that allow you to open the cans in a mess-free way.
What we liked: The oysters in the can come in different sizes. Plus, they are not too spicy and can be eaten without adding anything else.
What we didn’t like: The oysters contain a high amount of lead. Moreover, the olive oil used tastes a bit cheap.2. Roland Foods Premium Naturally Smoked Medium Oysters in Oil
Highlighted Features
If you love the taste of smoked oysters, you might be interested to try out these canned oysters from Roland Foods. The dark-brown oysters have been cured in cherrywood smoke to make them more flavorful. These oysters are not mushy, they are quite firm so you can snack on them throughout your day.
The oysters are ready to eat. This means that you will not need to cook, grill, or add any special sauces to them. All you need to do is open the tin and take the oysters out. The oysters taste amazing when you mix them well with a few drops of lemon juice. You can also add crushed pepper to add in some spice.
What we liked: The canned oysters contain only 70 calories per serving, making them a low-calorie snack. You will receive around 12-13 oysters per tin.
What we didn’t like: The oysters have a very mild taste so you might need to add in some extra seasonings.3. Ocean Prince Gourmet Whole Oysters with Carrots
Highlighted Features
High in protein and iron, these canned oysters from Ocean Prince make a delightful snack. Each can contains 65g of freshly, smoked oysters that are drenched in cottonseed oil. The oysters are finely mixed with carrots, onions, and red chili peppers. These oysters are extremely flavorful and are not too spicy so you can have them whenever.
Each tin contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids and a high amount of protein. Moreover, each tin contains 6% of vitamin A and 2% of calcium. There are 110 calories per serving so you can easily have it with bread and butter, horseradish, and other food without worrying about consuming too many calories.
What we liked: You will be provided with whole oysters, not just small pieces.
What we didn’t like: Consumption of cottonseed oil tends to raise your cholesterol and cause heart diseases. It would have been better if these oysters were drenched in olive oil.4. Crown Prince Smoked Oysters in Cottonseed Oil
Highlighted Features
If you are looking for canned oysters that are full of nutrients, these ones from Crown Prince might be perfect for you. You will be provided with a total of 18 canned oysters that come in 3.75oz tin cans with pull-top lids. They are easy to open and are fully cooked so you can eat them immediately. Moreover, the oysters are rich in flavor which allows you to put them inside sandwiches or use them as pizza toppings.
These canned oysters are very nutritious. They are a rich source of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Each serving provides you with 170 calories. There are mollusks present in each tin can so do not be surprised when you find one.
What we liked: The cans can be opened easily, without any spillage. Moreover, the oysters come in whole pieces, not in chunks or small pieces.
What we didn’t like: The oysters taste a bit bland so you might want to season them before putting them in your food.5. Reese Large Smoked Oysters
Highlighted Features
These canned oysters from Reese not only come in large pieces but also provide you with tons of nutritional value. You will receive a total of ten tin cans that are super easy to open. The oysters have been smoked in cherrywood and then drenched in cottonseed oil. They are fully cooked so you can just take them out of the container and eat them immediately. These oysters taste delicious and go well with lots of food including sandwiches and salads.
The canned oysters contain 8% of vitamin A and 6% of vitamin C per serving. They also contain a generous amount of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids in each serving. Moreover, each can contains 180 calories, of which 90 are from fat.
What we liked: The oysters are not too chewy, mushy, or rubbery. They have great texture and come in uniform sizes.
What we didn’t like: This product contains lead and cadmium, which are known to be harmful to health. Moreover, the canned oysters contain a high sodium content of 320mg per serving.6. BRUNSWICK Fancy Smoked Oysters
Highlighted Features
Want to prepare a fancy meal at home without spending a hefty sum of money? These canned oysters from BRUNSWICK might be an excellent choice. You will be provided with 12 canned oysters that are full of flavor and juices. They are kept in airtight containers so you are unlikely to receive any bad batches. These oysters have been drenched in cottonseed and salted finely so you will not need to add any extra sauces.
The oysters do not include any gluten. Individuals following a keto or a paleo diet can easily enjoy this item without violating any rules. The oysters include a generous amount of protein. You will receive 13g of protein in each serving. Moreover, it contains only 130 per serving which allows you to snack on the oysters without feeling any food guilt.
What we liked: The oysters are packed in airtight containers so you will be able to store them safely for a long period of time.
What we didn’t like: The oysters have a very chewy texture. Plus, they are quite small.7. MW Polar Boiled Oyster
Highlighted Features
If you want fresh oysters that are not drenched in unhealthy oils, the 12-pack canned oysters from MW Polar might be perfect for you. These boiled oysters are kept in salty water that helps to keep them fresh for a long period of time. Each tin includes a generous number of oysters so you can easily use just one can to make your seafood soup, stew, gumbo, and lots more. Moreover, you will receive whole oysters, not just chunks and small pieces.
In each serving, you will receive 7g of protein, 3g of total fat, and 35mg of carbohydrates. Moreover, there is 4% vitamin A and 6% iron per serving. The oysters do not include any heavy metals or biotoxins which means that they are safe for consumption. The oysters may include a few shells so you are instructed to rinse the oysters well before using them.
What we liked: These canned oysters taste exactly like the boiled oysters that are served in restaurants.
What we didn’t like: The cans do not have pull-out lids so you will need to use a can opener to open them, which takes a lot of time and effort.8. Pacific Pearl Smoked Oysters in Spring Water
Highlighted Features
If you are in need of smoked canned oysters that are not packed in unhealthy, low-quality oils, you might be interested to grab a pack from Pacific Pearl. You will receive 12 airtight cans that are filled with whole pieces of smoked oysters, water, and salt. Each can weighs 3.75 ounces and does not include any fat.
You will be provided with 18g of protein,39mg of calcium, and 8mg of iron in each serving. These oysters make a super healthy snack that you can have throughout the day. Although each can contains 360mg of sodium, these oysters are not too salty. Moreover, they are fully cooked so you can have them immediately after opening the can.
What we liked: These oysters are made using natural ingredients that do not include any gluten.
What we didn’t like: Smoked oysters that are packed in spring water may not suit everyone’s taste.9. BUMBLE BEE Fancy Smoked Oysters
Highlighted Features
These oysters come in a pack of six and are contained in airtight containers for a longer shelf-life. Before the oysters are packed into the tin cans, they are steamed, their shells are carefully removed, and then, they are smoked. These oysters do not include any gluten and people following a keto or paleo diet can easily snack on this item without breaking any rules.
You will be provided with a generous amount of oysters that allow for two servings per container. There are 110 calories in each serving, of which 60 are from fat. These oysters contain 11g of protein, 2% vitamin A, 2% calcium, and 35% iron per serving. These oysters are very nutritious and make a delicious snack. They also taste amazing when you put them in salads, sandwiches, soups, and stews.
What we liked: These oysters contain a very low amount of sodium (160mg) in each serving. Moreover, the cans are very easy to open.
What we didn’t like: It does not specify the type of oil that the oysters are drenched in.10. Chicken of the Sea Oysters
Highlighted Features
These oysters are fresh, delicious, and do not need to be cooked or grilled. You will be provided with a total of six canned oysters that you can use to make seafood salad, soup, stew, and lots more. The oysters are packed in salty water and do not contain any type of oil. Each can has enough oysters to offer two servings per can.
It is advised to rinse the oysters well before having them. You should not consume the salty water that the oysters come in. Each can provides you with 8g of protein and includes only 60 calories. You can enjoy this low-calorie snack in any way you like, be it in salads or sandwiches. Chicken of the Sea offers whole oysters, not just small pieces.
What we liked: It provides you with a delicious recipe that is printed on the back of the tin can. Moreover, you will be provided with a generous amount of oysters in each can.
What we didn’t like: The oysters may taste a bit mushy. Plus, they have a very mild flavor.11. Geisha Fancy Smoked Oysters In Cottonseed Oil
Highlighted Features
These canned oysters from Geisha are delicious, firm, and come in whole pieces. The smoked oysters are packed in cottonseed oil and salt so you expect a burst of flavor in your mouth when you eat them.
Each can offers two servings so you can expect a generous amount of oysters. In each serving, you will be provided with 9g of protein, 5g of carbohydrates, and 2g of dietary fiber. Moreover, there are only 120 calories in each can.
What we liked: The oysters have great texture, flavor, and consistency.
What we didn’t like: These canned oysters are high in sodium. There is 290mg of sodium in each can.12. Ekone Oysters Company Oysters Smoked Habenero
Highlighted Features
Ekone Oysters Company is known for its delicious, fresh, and firm oysters and these smoked ones are no different. You will receive a can filled with 3 ounces of smoked oysters that are packed in sunflower oil and salt. These oysters not only act as a rich source of protein but are also high in iron. The oysters are extremely nutritious and can be eaten immediately after opening the can.
The oysters are farmed in Willapa Bay, Washington. They are extracted from managed fisheries and the whole production process is carried out inside the borders of the US. The can is very easy to open. All you need to do is pull the handle on top and you are good to go. You can add these oysters to your salads, pasta, soups, and stews, among other food.
What we liked: The oysters are neither too greasy nor too salty. They have just the right texture and flavor. Moreover, the oysters are quite large.
What we didn’t like: You will receive only one can so you might want to order a few at once.Things To Consider Before Buying The Best Canned Oysters
No. of Cans
If you enjoy eating oysters daily, then you might want to get a large pack. You might want to get a pack of 10,12, or 18 canned oysters if you really like the flavor and texture of the oysters from the specific brand. If you are skeptical about trying out canned oysters, it might be best if you get small packs, of say 3 or 5.
Ingredients
The canned oysters should be made using safe, fresh, and healthy ingredients. It is best to avoid ones that contain lead and cadmium since they can put your health at risk. Canned oysters that provide a rich source of iron, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids in each serving should be among your top choices. Moreover, you should also keep note of the amount of sodium included in each can. It is advised to opt for canned oysters that are drenched in olive oil or sunflower oil rather than those that are drenched in cottonseed oil. This is because cottonseed oil tends to raise cholesterol levels and it is also bad for your heart.
Smoked vs. Boiled
If you want flavored oysters, then you might want to get the smoked ones. The oysters are usually smoked in cherrywood and then packed in oil or water. Since smoked oysters usually have flavor in them, you will not need to add any extra sauces to them. On the other hand, boiled oysters have a very mild flavor so you want to add some sauces to make them more flavorful. Boiled oysters usually go well with soups and stews.
Calories Per Serving
If you want to stay at a healthy weight, you might want to get a pack of canned oysters that are low in calories. It is always best to not consume a high-calorie meal as it is likely to deteriorate your health at a faster rate. However, “low calories per serving” do not necessarily mean that the food is healthy. You should always go through the ingredients thoroughly before placing your order.
Packaging
If you want your canned oysters to remain fresh for a long period of time, you might want to check out the packaging. The ones that are packed in airtight containers or tin cans have a longer shelf-life than the ones that do not. Canned oysters that have pull-out tin lids are quite easy to open as you are unlikely to make a mess or spill the oil everywhere. You might need to use a can opener to open the canned oysters that do not have pull-out lids.
FAQ
Where should I store the canned oysters?
If you have unopened cans, then you can store them in your kitchen pantry. It is important that you store them in a cool, dry place that is away from direct heat or sunlight. If the cans are opened and you still have some oysters left, then it is best if you refrigerate them.
How to tell if oysters have gone bad?
Oysters that have gone bad tend to give off a bad odor. Moreover, they turn very dark in color and become quite mushy.
Conclusion
Whether you are looking for a cheaper alternative to having restaurant-worthy oysters or just tired of shucking oysters, a pack of canned oysters will save you a lot of trouble. They are super nutritious and provide you with a generous amount of protein, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. The best canned oysters always leave you wanting more.