On Friday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in conjunction with Tri-Union Seafoods announced a recall of canned tuna distributed in 26 states and Washington, D.C. due to concerns about potential botulism contamination.

The FDA indicated that Tri-Union Seafoods initiated this voluntary recall as a precaution after discovering possible defects with the product’s seal. Specifically, the “easy open” pull tabs on certain cans sold at retailers such as Trader Joe’s and Costco may have malfunctioned, posing a risk of clostridium botulinum contamination, a dangerous form of food poisoning that can be life-threatening.

Here’s what you need to know.

Which brands are impacted and where can you find them?

For more details, please check this comprehensive list of affected products.

The following products are included:

• Canned tuna under the Trader Joe’s label sold in Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C.

• Genova 7 oz. canned tuna sold at Costco locations in Florida and Georgia.

• Genova 5 oz. canned tuna available at Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and various independent retailers in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas.

What actions should you take if you possess recalled cans?

Dispose of the cans immediately. Even if the tuna appears and smells fine, it’s safer to throw it away. For a replacement product, get in touch with the store where you made your purchase or contact Tri-Union Seafoods at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or by calling 833-374-0171.

It’s important to note that other products from Tri-Union Seafoods are not included in this recall.

Have any health issues been reported?

Fortunately, there have been no reports of illnesses associated with the recalled tuna.

What exactly is botulism?

Botulism is a serious illness caused by a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis and respiratory difficulties, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It can be deadly.

Most cases arise from homemade food, rather than commercially produced items. Improper canning or fermentation processes can create conditions for botulinum spores to thrive. If uncertain about the safety of home-canned goods, the C.D.C. advises discarding the items rather than sampling them.

Signs of potential contamination include damaged containers, leakage, or contents that spur liquid or foam upon opening. Other indicators are discoloration, mold, or foul smells. The C.D.C. recommends refrigerating canned or pickled foods after opening.

How prevalent are botulism outbreaks?

While rare, botulism outbreaks can be extremely serious. In 2023, a tragic incident in France resulted in one fatality and at least a dozen illnesses linked to homemade sardine preserves consumed at an organic wine bar in Bordeaux. Additionally, U.S. health departments reported 21 cases of food-born botulism to the C.D.C. in 2019.

Reporting contributed by Jonathan Wolfe.