Santa Catarina – The Tradition of Azorean Tuna

Discover Santa Catarina, a Portuguese conserverie from the island of São Jorge in the Azores, where generations of tuna-making tradition meet a deep respect for the Atlantic Ocean. Rooted in one of Portugal's historic fishing regions, Santa Catarina combines traditional craftsmanship, carefully selected tuna and modern production techniques to create preserves with a distinctive taste and character.

The history of the canning industry in the village of Calheta dates back to the 1940s. Located by the sea in Fajã Grande, the Santa Catarina factory is dedicated exclusively to the production of tuna preserves. For decades, the brand has built its reputation on quality, combining technological expertise with traditional artisanal methods and the knowledge of its local fishing community.

A Heritage Rooted in the Azores

São Jorge, one of the islands of the Azores archipelago, has a long-standing connection to the Atlantic and its fishing traditions. It is here that Santa Catarina has developed its identity, bringing together the island's maritime heritage and a commitment to producing high-quality tuna preserves.

For Santa Catarina, tradition is more than a part of its history. It is reflected in the way its tuna is selected, prepared and preserved, maintaining the character of the fish while respecting the methods that have shaped the local canning industry.

From the Atlantic to the Tin

Santa Catarina works with fresh tuna caught in Azorean waters using the traditional salto e vara method, also known as pole-and-line fishing. This artisanal technique allows fishermen to select individual fish, helping to reduce unwanted catches and minimise the impact on other marine species.

Once at the factory, the tuna is carefully selected, cut and trimmed before being placed into the cans by hand. Depending on the recipe, olive oil, water or vegetable oil is added before each tin is sealed, preserving the natural quality of the fish.

This combination of careful preparation, skilled hands and traditional know-how gives Santa Catarina its distinctive approach to tuna preserves.

A Commitment to Responsible Fishing

Respect for the marine environment is an important part of Santa Catarina's philosophy. Its pole-and-line fishing method helps protect marine ecosystems, reduces unwanted catches and supports the preservation of other species, including dolphins.

The tuna fishery has been recognised through the Dolphin Safe and Friend of the Sea certifications, reflecting its commitment to more responsible fishing practices. According to the company, it was the first tuna fishery in the world to receive both recognitions.

By combining traditional fishing knowledge with these environmental commitments, Santa Catarina demonstrates how quality tuna preserves can remain closely connected to the responsible use of marine resources.

The Santa Catarina Promise

At the heart of Santa Catarina lies a simple ambition: to preserve the quality of Atlantic tuna while keeping the traditions of São Jorge alive. Through carefully selected fish, traditional pole-and-line fishing and skilled preparation, the brand brings together Portuguese heritage, responsible fishing and the craftsmanship of a historic Azorean conserverie.

Santa Catarina invites seafood lovers to discover the authentic taste of the Azores, where the Atlantic, local knowledge and generations of canning tradition come together in every tin.