Modest fish preserves for many, but for the Portuguese, they represent much more. Besides being a significant export commodity, canned sardines are a part of our country's gastronomic heritage and a cultural hallmark that fills us with pride.

In the 19th century, there arose a need to preserve food for maritime journeys and periods of scarcity. Portugal has always had a close relationship with the sea and a rich fishing tradition. Sardines were abundant in the Atlantic waters, but their consumption couldn't match the quantity caught. The surplus needed preservation, leading to the solution of canning to keep them edible for later use.

As a nation strongly tied to maritime endeavors, the canning solution proved invaluable for feeding crews. The history of canned sardines dates back to the 19th century when the preservation process was developed. The food was cooked, sealed in airtight containers, and subjected to high temperatures to kill bacteria causing spoilage. This technique allowed sardines to be preserved for a long time without refrigeration. It played a crucial role in their commercialization and distribution worldwide.

The canned sardine industry is a significant one in Portugal. Apart from creating jobs at various stages, from fishing to production, exporting canned sardines enables Portugal to reach international markets, playing a substantial role in the country's economy.

Beyond the direct economic impact, canned sardines also play an essential role in attracting tourism to our country. Tourists seek new experiences, and as we all know, gastronomy plays a fundamental role in this quest. The presence of canned sardines in shops and markets allows visitors to take home a sample of Portuguese cuisine.

Credits: Unsplash; Author: @ktlung;

Over the years, the packaging of sardines has undergone some changes and modernization. Nowadays, their designs are authentic works of art, depicting traditional scenes, colorful tiles, and other elements that evoke the spirit and traditions of the country, making the cans increasingly desirable.

For the Portuguese, these canned sardines are more than just common canned goods; they represent a piece of our country's cultural heritage, an integral part of our national identity, and a connection to the past. In summary, canned sardines hold a special place in the hearts of all Portuguese people, not just as food but as a symbol of tradition, culture, and national pride. The Portuguese relationship with canned sardines goes beyond the economic aspect; it reflects a profound connection with history and the essence of being Portuguese, carrying a profound symbol that goes beyond taste and nutrition.

Author

Cláudia Ferreira, who holds a degree in Communication Sciences from Universidade Autónoma de Lisboa, is currently serving as the assistant director and commercial representative at Casaiberia.

Cláudia Ferreira