GEISHA Mackerel Fillet in Oil 3.53oz (Pack of 24), Mackerel| HALAL & Kosher Certified – Gluten Free – Wild Caught – Good Source of Protein

I wasn't really sure what to expect when I ordered this, but was very pleasantly surprised. I've opened two packets so far, and first of all, the packets actually rip open neatly along the top just like they're supposed to, which is nice. One packet had three smaller fillets in it, and the other had one larger fillet. They are packed in a small amount of water and oil (wish it was olive oil, but it's not). I didn't see any skin or bones in either packet. The taste is really good. To me, it tastes like a cross between tuna and salmon, and not too fishy. While I was eating the first packet, Nacho (our orange tabby cat) started some serious begging maneuvers, so I shared it with him, and he heartily approved. Next thing you know, almost ALL of the cats showed up begging, so I had to give all of them some, as well. So not only is this mackerel people approved, it's cat approved, as well. The price per pack comes out to about $1.50 a piece, which may seem a little expensive, but it's much more affordable and a lot healthier than the items offered in the vending machines at work. These will be great to have on hand when I need something quick to bring to work. I'm very glad I got these, and I would definitely recommend them.

I am happy with the Geisha mackerel. Each pouch contains 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of mackerel and I have not found bones or other "non-meat" bits in the pouches. The fish usually is two or three large chunks and some flakes of meat. It is packed in a neutral soybean oil, which does not take away from the fish flavor when used to make mackerel patties or other dishes. Each pouch had an expiration date 13 months in the future. Overall I'm satisfied and I'll use some now and keep a few pouches in my emergency kit for power outages and hiking/camping to add variety to my meals.

In the last few days I have received both :Canned GEISHA Mackerel in Water.Pouches of GEISHA Mackerel Fillet in Oil.Both taste good, but are different.Canned in water:These are skin on and bone in. The bones are very soft and easily removed.Slightly more juicy and flavorful than the pouches.Flakey and falls apart a bit.I think these work good with crackers.3 times as much fish than a pouch.In pouches with oil:No skin.No bones.More dry than the canned.More solid feeling than canned.I feel these would be better than canned if I cooked with them.The pouches are a good size for one person.

filets were bits and pieces and hard. oil was mostly water

It's a given that taste and flavor assessment is a very personal aspect when evaluating food; there is usually a wide divergence of likes and dislikes with common foods. Thus, my commentary is based more on what I observe, and less on personal enjoyment.Growing up as I did in a Scandinavian household, I became well-acquainted with canned/tinned fish, especially sardines, herring, and kippers. I like them to this day. So, I was very much looking forward to trying this offering of Geisha Mackerel Fillets in Oil. For me, unfortunately, this does not stand up to other packed small-fish offerings of this type. I believe the main reason for this, is because I detect a faint, but noticeable metallic flavor. This struck me as odd, coming from a pouch, but I realized that it could be related to the State of California labeling, as found on the pouches that I received. (I reside in California). Since these labeled pouches would be sent to others, depending on shipment/purchaser location, I feel that I should point this out, by way of the photo. This labeling is not shown in the advertising examples, which would indicate other areas of distribution. (Enlarge my attached photo, for visibility). If a potential purchaser is, like me, from the referred state, that person may want to research the above-shown P65 Warning on this California-distributed Geisha Mackerel. I'm not making a value judgment, but when applied to fish, the P65 label refers to possible metals; in this case, Mercury. So, I'm wondering if my perceived metallic taste is related to that.My pouches consisted of broken fillets, with other small pieces, is a water-oil mix. The aroma is thus not quite as fishy as sardines in pure oil, in my estimation. But, unliked canned fish, the flesh of this pouched fillet variety is more than firm; bordering on hard, slightly chewy, in fact. I find this hardened quality to be off-putting, tasting like a partially dehydrated fish that has been re-hydrated.The above factors keep me from using the fish “as is”, meaning as a cracker topping, or on bread, for example. But, I do think that the fish is useful as an addition to a prepared dish. It may work well in a Pasta Puttanesca, in place of the anchovies, or in a skillet Vegetable Ragout. For me, this mackerel product is not a winner, but does potentially have some uses.

Only real con here is the use of plastics for the bags... An odd irony for a company involved in fishing, but... I guess that's corporations for ya.Mackerel fans human and otherwise should enjoy these immensely! My wife and dogs in particular were VERY happy to see this arrive on the doorstep.

I grew up eating mackerel on rye bread with mustard and onions. These packs are good for one serving at 120 calories. More fishy than tuna but not overly so. In fact you can turn this into salad a la tuna. Mayo, onion, celery and mayo. Yummmm.