Medical Wellness Association Declares 2026 as “The Year of the Sardine”

The Medical Wellness Association (MWA), a global organization focused on improving consumer health and wellness, has officially declared 2026 as “The Year of the Sardine.”

The initiative aims to encourage families worldwide to return to real, nutritionally dense foods—and to spotlight sardines as one of the most affordable and accessible options for better health.

According to the MWA, declining wellness and rising lifestyle-related diseases around the world signal a need to rethink what we put on our plates. Research now points to metabolic health as a key factor in preventing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, cardiovascular disease, and even certain cancers.

“Improving metabolic health is foundational to overall wellness,” said Dr. Christopher Breuleux, President of the US-based MWA. “Simple food choices can make a real difference, and sardines are one of those choices.”

Why sardines?

MWA Board Member and Faculty Member James Michael Lafferty explained that sardines are rich in high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential vitamins and minerals—all while remaining budget-friendly.

“From a nutritional standpoint, sardines tick all the boxes,” Lafferty said. “They’re dense in nutrients, cost-effective, and easy to include in everyday meals. That’s why we believe sardines deserve to be recognized as a true superfood.”

Interest in sardines has been steadily growing worldwide. Health experts and wellness advocates have been promoting sardine-based eating patterns on social media and global podcasts, including trends like the “three-day sardine fast.” This growing awareness comes as more people shift their focus toward metabolic health.

MWA also noted that the global sardines market has been growing at 7.5% annually, even before the recent emphasis on metabolic wellness. With increasing education and updated dietary guidelines in key markets like the United States, the association forecasts double-digit growth starting in 2026.

A Filipino brand recognized on the global stage

As part of its ongoing review of nutrient-dense food categories, the MWA awarded its prestigious “Superfood” seal in mid-2025 to Mega Sardines, a Filipino brand under Mega Prime Foods, Inc.

The recognition was based on several factors, including the purity of the fishing waters in the South Pacific and Mega’s vertically integrated “catch-to-can in 12 hours” process, which ensures freshness and quality.

Mega Prime Foods, Inc., now celebrating over 50 years, is known for its guiding value of “Malasakit”—a Filipino concept centered on caring for others without expecting anything in return. This philosophy has helped the company lead efforts in education and awareness around nutritious, affordable food choices.

The company is also working with major universities to conduct clinical studies on food and metabolic health, contributing to the growing body of research in this field.

“Our commitment has always been to serve families with food that offers both quality and value,” said Michelle Tiu Lim Chan, CEO of Mega Prime Foods. “Being recognized by the Medical Wellness Association affirms what we’ve stood for over the past five decades—and inspires us to continue this mission for generations to come.”