Quick Bites: Tin it to win

BUYING Irish during the big shop has just become a little easier thanks to Shines Seafood. Founded by former fisherman John Shine and wife Marianne, a former seafood buyer, the Donegal-based brand is bringing Irish sardines to supermarket shelves here for the first time. Previously sourced from Sardinia, the protein-packed fish is now caught by small boats in clean waters off the Irish coast. Rich in omega 3, vitamins D, B12 and calcium, it’s also caught during the peak winter months, when the nutritional content is highest, before being traditionally preserved for maximum freshness and flavour. Priced €2.49, the handy tinned sardines come in flavours including tomato sauce, olive oil and sunflower oil, and are available from all major retailers and independent stores nationwide.