About

Olhão

Olhão (Ol'-Yaow), Portugal
BELA-Olhão sardines and tuna come from Olhão Portugal, a thriving traditional fishing comunity located in the Algarve that has existed for hundreds of years.Our products are fished in these non-industrial, unpolluted waters and have no detectable levels on pesticides.

The Algarve Region of Portugal
Portugal is a country approximately the size of California. The Algarve is the southern coast of Portugal, which stretches 100 miles from Cape St. Vincent to Vila Real de Santo Antonio on the Spanish border. The name comes from the Moorish word for region, Al-Gharb. This coast is one of those special places on Earth that seems to beckon visitors for a variety of reasons. Some come to play at some fo Europe's finest golf courses. Other come for the spectacular beaches.

Sardines
Then there's the carnival of food! Seafood abounds: grilled sardines, flavorful chowders, and cataplana, a wild combination of sausage, clams, and ham stirred together with paprika, onions and coriander. Local wines are plentiful and full-bodied. Delicious fruits and a wonderful variety of breads compliment any meal. The sardine is the staple dish of the Algarve. The large, juicy, Portuguese sardines have been the main cash crop in this region for years. At one time Portimao was home to more than 50 sardine canning factories. You will find that virtually every Portuguese restaurent sells them. The best place to enjoy this tasty little fish is on the quayside at either Portimao or Alvor harbour.

Fishing Practices

Dolphin Safe Fishing Fleet
Our fleet of traditional Portuguese style fishing vessels is the largest individually owned fishing fleet in Portugal. Blue Galleon sardines and tuna are the freshest possible. Fish are processed within hours after the catch each day. Only the species Sardina Plichardue (sardines) and Katsuwonus Pelamis (tuna) are used and canned with the freshest ingredients.

The Highest Standards in the Community
The best and most consistant quality is insured through constant inspection, on the boat and in the factory. Our sardines are canned within 8 hours of the catch, and our quality control preserves their delicate taste.

Ecologically Supportive
Full compliance with FDA Good Manufacturing Practice regulations, a comprehensive Critical Control Point program and a full certification with the European Common Market further insure the finest product avilable.