Frequently Asked Questions
Once open the product can be refrigerated and consumed within 2 days. We do however recommend that the product is transferred into a suitable airtight container to refrigerate.
We can confirm that majority of canned products can be frozen. Please remove contents from can and put into suitable airtight container. We would suggest you refer to your specific fridge freezer guidelines for length of time.
EC recognised allergens are always declared on an ingredients list on a label if it forms part of that product recipe (highlighted in bold). The absence of an allergen on a list of ingredients means that that allergen has not been knowingly added to the product.
If you require further information, please email enquiries@princes.co.uk.
Products containing gluten added to them as ingredients (in any quantity) i.e., wheat, rye, barley, oats, spelt and kamut, or products thereof, must be declared in the ingredients list or state that the product contains gluten. If none of the above ingredients or “gluten” are referenced on a product label, then the product will not contain added gluten. We would recommend that you check the ingredients list on the product label for the presence of gluten-based cereals on all your purchases.
This product is already cooked in the can therefore it can be consumed straight from the can or heat to desired temperature/added to a recipe.
Each of our products are printed with a Best Before Date and we only guarantee the quality of the product within this date. Although some products may remain consumable after this date, it is at your own discretion if the product is consumed.
If you have recently purchased a product that is out of date, please return to retailer where purchased along with your receipt for a full refund.
The majority of our products are sold in most major supermarkets. For more information, please visit our website https://www.princes.co.uk/our-products/
Why Princes Moved to MSC-Certified Chilean Jack Mackerel: Your Questions Answered
In 2025, updated scientific advice highlighted growing concerns about the health of North-East Atlantic mackerel stocks, with stock levels falling below sustainable thresholds. At the same time, countries fishing North-East Atlantic mackerel had still not reached a long-term agreement to manage the fishery in line with scientific advice, resulting in catches continuing to exceed recommended limits.
As a result, Princes took the decision to move its branded range to MSC-certified Chilean jack mackerel, ensuring consumers could continue to choose a product sourced from an independently certified sustainable fishery.
Chilean jack mackerel is sourced from a fishery certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), the world’s leading certification programme for sustainable wild-caught seafood.
The move allows Princes to continue offering consumers an MSC-certified canned fish option while concerns regarding North-East Atlantic mackerel management remain unresolved.
Chilean jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi) is a different species from North-East Atlantic mackerel (Scomber scombrus). The product is clearly identified as “jack mackerel” on the packaging along with the species name so consumers can make an informed choice.
When we approached UK regulatory authorities of our intent to launch this product they confirmed to us that Jack Mackerel would be a permitted descriptor in the UK.
Jack mackerel has been the descriptor for Trachurus murphyi across many brands in Europe for decades and we understand that UK authorities viewed a common naming protocol to be appropriate and practical given the pan European nature of supply chains, brands and many retailers.
Chilean jack mackerel has a slightly different flavour and texture to North-East Atlantic mackerel. Before making the switch, Princes undertook extensive product and consumer testing before introducing the new range. Whilst differences were identified by consumers, notably in Chilean jack mackerel having a milder flavour and meatier texture- overall our testing gave us confidence that a clear majority of consumers enjoyed the products. We would not have launched it to market without this reassurance.
Yes. Princes publicly announced the change in October 2025 and explained the sustainability rationale behind the decision at the time.
No. Princes is not alone in taking this approach. Other seafood brands have switched to jack mackerel and supermarkets including Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Lidl have reviewed sourcing policies and introduced jack mackerel as a certified alternative in response to ongoing sustainability concerns around North-East Atlantic mackerel. Princes was the first mover in the UK reflecting our serious concerns about the sustainability of the stock.
Princes has stated that it would actively consider sourcing North-East Atlantic mackerel again if sustainable management arrangements are restored and MSC certification is regained.
For clarity, Princes has no role in the setting of Retail Selling Prices on shelves in supermarkets and stores. That is always our customers decision.
Historically, jack mackerel prices were lower than North East Atlantic mackerel. However, with any finite resource facing increased demand, prices have risen sharply, by 40-60% over the past 12 months.
Our prices to customers always reflect the true cost of the raw materials purchased. Our products are kitchen cupboard everyday essentials, and we always want our costs to customers and their prices to consumers to be as low as possible.
