
EL SEGUNDO, CA — Tri-Union Seafoods, a California-based company, has issued a recall for various flavors and sizes of tuna due to potential contamination with clostridium botulinum, which can lead to botulism. The recall was announced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Monday, stating that no illnesses related to these products have been reported so far.
Despite the absence of reported illnesses, the FDA emphasizes that botulism is a serious foodborne illness that can be life-threatening. Signs of this condition may include general fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulties in speaking or swallowing. If you experience severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, muscle weakness, abdominal swelling, or constipation, it’s important to seek medical care immediately.
The FDA’s recall action has been triggered by a report from Tri-Union’s supplier, which indicated that a manufacturing flaw in the “easy open” pull tab cans could compromise the seal over time. This defect may allow for potential leaks or contamination with clostridium botulinum.
Consumers are advised against consuming any of the affected tuna, even if there are no visible signs of contamination. If you’ve consumed any of the recalled products and feel unwell, the FDA recommends seeking medical attention promptly.
This recall affects tuna distributed across the nation under various brand names, including those sold at Trader Joe’s locations in Michigan. The FDA has listed retail stores where the impacted products were sold:
- H-E-B label – Texas
- Trader Joe’s label – Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin
- Genova 7 oz. – Available at Costco in Florida and Georgia
- Genova 5 oz. – Sold at Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and various independent retailers across Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas
- Van Camp’s label – Found at Walmart and independent stores in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey
For a comprehensive list of the recalled products, click here.
You can identify the recalled items by the specific can codes and “Best if Used By” dates marked on the bottom of the cans, as well as the UPC numbers.
If you possess any of the recalled tuna, it is advised that you return it to the store for a full refund, dispose of it, or contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly to request a retrieval kit along with a coupon for a replacement. To reach Tri-Union Seafoods, contact them at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or call 1-833-374-0171 from Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. EST.
