# The Best Store-Bought Refried Beans Aren't Canned
Canned refried beans have dominated grocery shelves for decades, but a shift is underway. The Kitchn's testing reveals that jarred versions, particularly those made with beef tallow, deliver superior texture and flavor compared to their tinned counterparts.
The difference lies in preparation and fat content. Traditional canned beans often suffer from mushy texture and metallic undertones that come from prolonged storage in metal containers. Jarred alternatives, especially those using beef tallow as their fat base, maintain creamier consistency and richer taste. These products require minimal effort. A serving takes roughly 90 seconds to prepare, making them competitive with canned options in terms of convenience while outperforming them in quality.
Somos Refried Pinto Beans with Beef Tallow represents a notable example of this category's potential. The brand prioritizes traditional fat sources and straightforward ingredients over the vegetable oils commonly found in mass-market canned varieties. This approach appeals to consumers seeking authentic flavor profiles without sacrificing convenience.
The rise of jarred beans reflects broader food trends. Home cooks increasingly reject ultra-processed ingredients and artificial additives. They want recognizable components like actual beans, salt, and animal fat rather than stabilizers and preservatives. Jarred formats also reduce packaging waste and shelf-space clutter compared to multipacks of cans.
Retailers have noticed consumer preferences shifting toward premium shelf-stable options. These products command higher price points than budget canned beans but undercut the cost and time investment of cooking dried beans from scratch. For weeknight dinners, taco nights, and quick protein additions, jarred refried beans occupy a practical middle ground.
The category expansion also reflects Latino food cultures gaining recognition in mainstream grocery retail. As consumers explore authentic Mexican and Central