Tri-Union Seafoods has issued a voluntary recall of canned tuna products sold under popular brands like Trader Joe’s, Genova, Van Camp’s, and H-E-B due to a manufacturing defect that could lead to Clostridium botulinum contamination, a potentially life-threatening bacteria causing botulism. The recall, announced on February 7, affects products sold in 26 states and Washington, D.C., at major retailers including Costco, Walmart, Kroger, and Publix. No illnesses have been reported so far, but consumers are urged to act immediately if they possess recalled items .
Key Details of the Recall
- Reason for Recall:
The “easy open” pull-tab lids on select cans were found to have a manufacturing defect, compromising the seal over time. This defect increases the risk of bacterial contamination, which can cause botulism—a rare but deadly illness marked by symptoms like muscle paralysis, breathing difficulties, and blurred vision . - Affected Products:
Below is the full list of recalled products, including UPC codes and brands, as detailed in the Good Housekeeping recall notice:
- Trader Joe’s:
- Solid Light Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil (UPC: 51403)
- Solid White Tuna in Olive Oil (UPC: 99287)
- Solid White Tuna in Water (UPC: 99285)
- Solid White Water Low Sodium (UPC: 95836)
- Solid White Water No Salt Added (UPC: 99284)
- Genova:
- Solid White Tuna in Olive Oil, 5 oz. (UPC: 4800000215)
- Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil, 5 oz. (UPC: 4800013265)
- Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil, 4-pack of 5 oz. (UPC: 4800073265)
- Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil, 6-pack of 7 oz. (UPC: 4800063267)
- Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt, 5 oz. (UPC: 4800013275)
- Van Camp’s:
- Solid Light Tuna in Oil, 5 oz. (UPC: 4800025015)
- Solid Light Tuna in Oil, 4-pack of 5 oz. (UPC: 4800075015)
- H-E-B:
- Solid White Tuna in Water, 4-pack of 5 oz. (UPC: 4122043345)
Note: Check the bottom of cans for “Best If Used By” dates ranging from December 2027 to January 2028 .
- Distribution Locations:
- Trader Joe’s: Sold in 19 states and D.C., including Illinois, New York, and Pennsylvania.
- Genova 7 oz.: Available at Costco in Florida and Georgia.
- Genova 5 oz.: Distributed in 10 states, including California, Texas, and Arizona, at retailers like Walmart and Harris Teeter.
- Van Camp’s: Found in Walmart stores in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey .
What Consumers Should Do
- Do Not Consume: Discard or return recalled products immediately, even if they appear undamaged. Botulism toxins are odorless and invisible .
- Refunds/Replacements: Return cans to the retailer for a full refund or contact Tri-Union Seafoods at 833-374-0171 or support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com for a retrieval kit and replacement coupon .
- Medical Attention: Seek immediate care if experiencing symptoms like difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, or blurred vision after consumption .
Broader Implications
This recall highlights ongoing challenges in seafood supply chains, where packaging defects and global production complexities can delay detection of risks. Experts emphasize the need for improved traceability and stricter quality controls to safeguard consumers .
For the latest updates, visit the FDA recall page or review Tri-Union’s official statement.
Stay informed, stay safe.
