Canned Tuna Products Recalled Over Contamination Risk

Canned Tuna Products Recalled Over Contamination Risk

Tri-Union Seafoods has recalled popular canned tuna brands across 26 states due to a major contamination risk, yet no illnesses have been reported.

Quick Takes

  • Tuna sold in 26 states recalled due to botulism risks.
  • Faulty “easy open” packaging could compromise safety.
  • Consumers are advised to dispose of or return affected cans.
  • No illnesses have been reported, but medical attention is suggested if the products are consumed.

Canned Tuna Recall Across 26 States

Tri-Union Seafoods has issued a recall of 13 canned tuna products due to defective pull-tab lids, affecting several popular brands such as Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s. This recall extends over 26 states and includes the District of Columbia, presenting a potential health threat from clostridium botulinum contamination. Despite the gravity of the potential illness, no cases have been reported, but caution is advised.

Cans with defective “easy open” pull-tab lids may compromise the product’s seal, prompting concerns over contamination. The FDA and Tri-Union Seafoods pointed to packaging defects that could allow the entry of hazardous bacteria leading to botulism. This serious form of food poisoning targets the nerves and requires immediate medical attention if suspected.

Precautionary Measures and Consumer Guidance

Even cans that look or smell normal should not be consumed due to the safety risk. Consumers are urged to return or dispose of the affected cans, which can be identified via specific codes available on the FDA’s website. Tri-Union Seafoods is offering refunds or retrieval kits for the unsafe products, encouraging customers to remain proactive about this safety concern.

The recall, launched on February 7, is a precautionary action following the discovery of a lid defect by a supplier. Tri-Union emphasized that no other products are involved, ensuring that the remainder of their offerings meet expected safety and quality criteria.

Multiple Retailers and Brands Impacted

The affected brands were distributed to major retailers, including Costco, Walmart, and Trader Joe’s. Widespread distribution means the recall impacts consumer supply lines across the nation, especially in states such as Texas, Florida, and Georgia.

Botulism, described by the CDC as “rare but serious,” can cause severe symptoms, making it critical that consumers adhere to recall guidance. For more information or product replacement, Tri-Union Seafoods has resources available to support their consumer response effort.

Sources

  1. Canned tuna sold at Costco, Trader Joe’s recalled over botulism risk
  2. Canned tuna sold at Costco, Trader Joe’s and more recalled over botulism risk
  3. Tri-Union Seafoods Issues Recall of Select Genova®, Van Camp’s®, H-E-B and Trader Joe’s® Tuna Cans Due to Clostridium Botulinum Risk
  4. Massive Tuna Recall Across 26 States – There Is Something Wrong with the Cans
  5. About Botulism