8 Canned Goods to Stock Up on at Target and 5 to Skip

Shopping for canned foods at Target can be a convenient and budget-friendly way to stock your pantry. With its wide selection of brands and in-house Good & Gather products, Target offers plenty of options for quick meals and cooking essentials. However, not all canned foods at Target are worth grabbing, as some deliver great taste and quality while others fall flat. With so many choices lining the shelves, it helps to know which cans are worth buying and which ones you should skip. To make your next Target grocery trip easier, here are the best and worst canned foods to consider.

Buy: Good & Gather Chickpeas

These chickpeas are a budget-friendly and nutritious staple for any pantry. They are low in sodium and packed with fiber and protein, making them an excellent addition to salads, soups, and pasta dishes. Many customers appreciate their firm texture and clean taste, which rival more expensive brands. Since they come with no artificial preservatives, they offer a fresh and natural flavor. Whether mashed into hummus or tossed into a stew, they provide a versatile and easy protein source. For a healthy and affordable option, these canned chickpeas are a great buy.

Skip: Chef Boyardee Beef Ravioli

This canned pasta is often criticized for its overly processed taste and mushy texture. The sauce is watery and lacks the rich, hearty flavor expected from a good tomato-based dish. While it may be convenient, the artificial ingredients and preservatives make it a less appealing choice. Many reviewers have pointed out that the beef filling is minimal and does not deliver on quality. Compared to homemade or even frozen ravioli, this product falls short in both taste and satisfaction. Unless there are no other options, this is one canned food worth skipping.

Buy: Campbell’s Kitchen Classics Beef Barley Soup

A warm and hearty option, this soup is packed with tender beef, barley, and vegetables. It is well-seasoned and delivers a rich, comforting flavor without being overly salty. Many consumers appreciate its generous portion of beef and the chewy texture of the barley. It is an easy meal to heat up and perfect for cold days or quick lunches. Unlike some other canned soups, this one does not taste overly processed or artificial. If you want a convenient and tasty meal, this is one of the best soups to keep on hand.

Skip: Good & Gather Sweet Whole Kernel Corn

While canned corn is a kitchen staple, this particular brand has been noted for its excessive sweetness. It contains a higher-than-average amount of added sugar and sodium, making it a less healthy choice. Many customers report that the kernels can be overly soft and lack the fresh, crisp texture of frozen or fresh corn. The flavor also leans too much toward the artificial side rather than natural sweetness. For a more wholesome option, fresh or frozen corn is a better alternative. Unless you are looking for something extra sweet, this canned corn is not the best pick.

Buy: Amy’s Lentil Vegetable Soup

This organic soup is a fantastic choice for those looking for a nutritious and filling meal. Packed with lentils, vegetables, and flavorful spices, it provides a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and potassium. Unlike many other canned soups, it does not contain artificial flavors or excessive sodium. The taste is rich and hearty, making it a great option for a quick lunch or dinner. It also caters to plant-based diets, making it ideal for vegetarians and vegans. If you need a healthy, ready-to-eat meal, this soup is a must-have.

Skip: Premium White Chunk Chicken in Water

While canned chicken can be a convenient protein source, this brand does not offer the best value. Many consumers report that the texture is dry and stringy, making it less enjoyable to eat. It also contains added salt and preservatives, which affect its natural taste. Compared to other brands, it lacks tenderness and has an artificial aftertaste. Since there are better-quality canned chicken options available at Target, this one is not the best pick. If you are looking for a reliable canned protein, it is worth choosing a different brand.

Buy: Good & Gather Diced Tomatoes

These canned diced tomatoes are a great pantry staple for anyone who loves to cook. Free from artificial flavors and preservatives, they deliver a fresh and natural taste. They are perfect for making sauces, soups, stews, and other tomato-based dishes. Many customers appreciate their firm texture and balanced acidity, which enhances their versatility in the kitchen. Since they are already diced, they save time and effort in meal preparation. For anyone who enjoys home cooking, these canned tomatoes are a must-have.

Skip: Good & Gather Chunk Light Tuna

Canned tuna is a quick and easy source of protein, but this brand has some drawbacks. Many buyers have reported that it has a strong fishy smell and a mushy consistency. Unlike higher-quality tuna options, it lacks the firm texture that makes it appealing for salads and sandwiches. Some consumers also note that it contains a lot of liquid, reducing the actual amount of tuna in the can. With better alternatives available at a similar price, this is not the best choice for canned tuna. If you want a better tuna option, consider looking at a different brand.

Buy: Annie’s Organic All Stars

This fun and nostalgic canned pasta is a healthier twist on a childhood favorite. Made with organic ingredients, it avoids artificial flavors and preservatives found in similar products. The pasta has a pleasant texture, and the tomato and cheese sauce is well-balanced and not overly salty. It is a great quick meal for kids and adults alike who want something comforting yet nutritious. Many consumers appreciate its lower saturated fat content compared to other canned pasta options. For an easy and organic meal, this is a great choice.

Skip: Hunt’s Premium Traditional Pasta Sauce

Although this sauce is budget-friendly, it does not deliver in terms of taste. Many find it too watery and lacking in depth, making it an underwhelming choice for pasta dishes. It is also high in sodium, which can be a concern for those watching their salt intake. Compared to homemade or higher-end jarred sauces, it lacks the rich and bold flavor that makes a great pasta dish. While it works in a pinch, there are better pasta sauces available at a similar price. If you want a flavorful sauce, this one is best left on the shelf.

Buy: Libby’s 100% Pure Pumpkin

This canned pumpkin is a must-have for baking and cooking enthusiasts. It has a smooth texture and a mild, natural flavor that works well in both sweet and savory dishes. Unlike some other brands, it contains no added sugar or artificial ingredients, making it a healthier option. Many home bakers swear by it for making pumpkin pies, muffins, and soups. It is also packed with fiber and vitamin A, making it a nutritious addition to your diet. Whether for seasonal treats or everyday meals, this is one of the best canned pumpkin options available.

Buy: Good & Gather Low Sodium Black Beans

These black beans are a versatile and nutritious addition to your pantry. Packed with protein and fiber, they are excellent for enhancing salads, soups, and various dishes. The low sodium content makes them a healthier choice compared to regular canned beans. Customers appreciate their firm texture and rich flavor, which hold up well in cooking. Priced affordably, they offer great value for those seeking quality ingredients on a budget. Incorporating these beans into your meals can boost nutritional content without compromising on taste.

Buy: Good & Gather Reduced Sodium Chicken Broth

This chicken broth offers a harmonious blend of savory chicken notes with subtle sweetness, making it versatile for various dishes. Its reduced sodium content allows for better control over seasoning in your recipes. Many customers appreciate its balanced flavor, which enhances soups, stews, and sauces without overpowering them. Priced affordably, it provides excellent value for those seeking quality broth on a budget. Incorporating this broth into your cooking can elevate the taste of your meals while maintaining a healthier sodium intake. ​

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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