Where to Buy Canned Shrimp: A Guide to Finding Delicious Shrimp in a Can

Canned shrimp can be a quick easy and tasty addition to many recipes. Whether you’re making shrimp salad, casseroles, pasta dishes or more, having canned shrimp on hand saves time in the kitchen. But with so many options on the market where exactly can you find and buy canned shrimp? This guide will walk you through the best places to buy canned shrimp and things to look for when purchasing.

Grocery Stores

The most obvious place to buy canned shrimp is at your local grocery store. Most stores will have some selection of canned seafood, usually near the tuna and other canned fish. Here are some of the most popular nationwide grocery chains for finding canned shrimp

• Walmart – With over 4,800 stores across the U.S., Walmart is a go-to for canned shrimp. They carry various name brand options like Bumble Bee and Chicken of the Sea, as well as Walmart’s own Great Value brand. The Bumble Bee Tiny Canned Shrimp 4 oz Can is one popular choice.

• Target – Another major big box retailer, Target has over 1,900 stores nationwide. Their selection of canned seafood includes shrimp options in different sizes and flavored varieties. Market Pantry is their signature brand.

• Kroger – With almost 2,800 stores under different banners, Kroger offers many name brand and store canned shrimp products. Look for Private Selection and Kroger brand options.

• Publix – Found across the Southeast U.S. with over 1,200 stores, Publix carries canned shrimp and seafood items. Publix brand canned shrimp provides good quality and value.

• ALDI – This discount grocery chain has 2,000+ locations in 36 states. ALDI has a revolving selection of canned seafood, usually under their Sea Queen brand.

In addition to the major chains, many local and regional grocery stores also carry canned shrimp. Check the canned meat or seafood aisle to see what’s available.

Big Box Stores

Looking beyond just supermarkets, big box stores like Costco, Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club offer bulk cases of canned shrimp. This is a great way to stock up if you use a lot of shrimp. You’ll get multiple cans (usually 6 packs) at a discounted price. The brand selection may be more limited though to the store’s private labels.

Specialty Markets

If you’re looking for a wider variety and unique options beyond the mass-market grocery store brands, head to specialty food stores.

• Asian Markets – Markets specializing in Asian foods often have several canned shrimp brands popular in Asian cuisine. This includes options like small salad shrimp.

• Seafood Markets – Stores focusing on fresh and packaged seafood provide many shrimp choices, including gourmet and imported cans not found elsewhere.

• Gourmet Markets – Upscale grocers like Whole Foods Market have lines of quality canned seafood, with an emphasis on sustainable sourcing.

• Organic/Natural Food Stores – Health food stores like Sprouts Farmers Market and Trader Joe’s stock organic and preservative-free canned shrimp and seafood.

• International Markets – Ethnic grocery stores feature shrimp brands that are staples in Hispanic, European and other cuisines around the world.

Online Retailers

The internet opens up all kinds of specialty canned shrimp that you may not be able to find in stores near you. Online shopping lets you browse many brands and compare prices easily. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart and others sell shelf-stable canned shrimp that they can ship to your door. This includes boutique brands and sustainable seafood companies. Many online stores also offer subscriptions and regular monthly delivery for items like canned seafood.

Things to Look for When Buying Canned Shrimp

Now that you know the best places to buy canned shrimp, here are some tips for selecting the right product:

• Shrimp Size – Canned shrimp come in tiny salad shrimp up to large shrimp. Choose based on recipe needs and personal preference.

• Count per Can – Pay attention to how many shrimp are in the can (typically ranges from about 30 to 100 individual shrimp). Get the amount you need.

• With or Without Shells – Most canned shrimp is peeled and deveined for convenience. Some specialty products keep the shell on the shrimp for more flavor.

• Precooked vs. Raw – Fully-cooked canned shrimp just needs draining and is ready to eat. Raw packs need preparing before eating.

• Seasoned vs. Plain – Flavored shrimp is infused with spices, herbs and sauces. Plain is versatile for your own recipes.

• Wild-Caught vs. Farm-Raised – Wild shrimp will have a firmer texture and more natural flavor. Farm-raised is typically cheaper.

• Additives – Check the ingredients list and nutrition label to avoid unwanted preservatives, colors and excess sodium.

With this guide to all the places you can buy delicious canned shrimp, you’ll never be without this convenient seafood for making fast, tasty meals and appetizers. Whether shopping in stores or buying shrimp online, you now know what to look for. Canned shrimp can easily take your soups, salads, pasta and rice dishes to the next level.