Sardines become a viral social media superfood trend

Canned sardines have transitioned from a niche food item to a viral social media phenomenon. Driven by platforms like TikTok and Instagram, the trend—often referred to as ‘Sardinecore’ or ‘Sardine Girl Summer’—positions the small fish as a superfood due to its high content of Omega-3 fatty acids and calcium.

While social media users claim benefits such as improved skin, fitness, and weight management, experts note a significant gap between anecdotal online testimonials and rigorous scientific evidence. The digital hype has also contributed to supply issues, with consumers reporting difficulty finding canned sardines in supermarkets.

The trend gained further visibility through high-profile social media experiments, including a Harvard researcher who documented a month-long diet consisting almost exclusively of sardines.