AUSTRALIANS are eating more sardines as the latest viral food trend, dubbed “sardinemaxxing”, gains momentum across social media.
Data from food tracking app MyFitnessPal shows the volume of sardines logged by Australian users in July was more than double the same month last year.
Sardine logging also jumped more than 16 per cent above the monthly average, making July the strongest month this year.
The trend, known as #sardinemaxxing, involves eating larger quantities of sardines for their nutritional benefits. More than 100,000 videos now appear under the broader #sardines hashtag on TikTok.
MyFitnessPal says sardines have recorded almost triple the growth rate of any other seafood category on the app, while traditionally popular options including tuna and salmon have declined in popularity.
Nutritionist and MyFitnessPal ambassador Michaela Sparrow said the trend was drawing attention to a food that was affordable, convenient and nutrient-rich.
“The #sardinemaxxing trend is bringing valuable attention to a food that has always typically offered strong nutritional value, affordability, and simple relative ease to incorporate into everyday meals,” she said.
Ms Sparrow said sardines were a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, but should form part of a balanced diet rather than be viewed as a nutritional cure-all.
She said the trend could have lasting benefits if it encouraged Australians to include more nutrient-rich seafood in their diets.