Buy path
Start where you already shop. Upgrade one variable at a time.
Local grocery (Vons / Ralphs / Publix, etc.)
- Level 1: tuna in olive oil (not water)
- Level 2: smoked trout / smoked salmon / mackerel
- Level 3: sardines in olive oil; mussels; oysters
Specialty chains (Trader Joe’s / Whole Foods / World Market / TJ Maxx)
- Same levels, more variety
- Look for oil-packed, plain first; flavored later
Online / import specialty
- Optional. Only after you know you like Level 2–3
- Then explore origin/craft conservas
One rule
- If a tin is “too fishy,” switch species before quitting. Add acid. Keep the base familiar.