Canned Tuna Recall: Which Brands Are Affected by Health Concerns?

Person holding megaphone, "Product Recall" text.

A nationwide recall of canned tuna products has been issued due to potential botulism contamination, affecting popular brands and multiple states.

Quick Takes

Tri-Union Seafoods recalls canned tuna due to manufacturing defect risking botulism
Affected brands include Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s
Products sold in D.C. and 26 states with “Best Used By” dates ending in 2027 and 2028
No illnesses reported, but consumers advised to return products for refund
Recall highlights need for improved food safety measures

Widespread Recall Affects Multiple Brands

California-based Tri-Union Seafoods has initiated a voluntary recall of select canned tuna products due to a potential botulism risk. The recall, which spans multiple states and affects several popular brands, has been issued “out of an abundance of caution” according to the company. A manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull-tab lids has been identified as the cause, potentially compromising the product seals and leading to contamination.

The affected brands include Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s labels. These products have been distributed across D.C. and 26 other states, with specific distribution patterns varying by brand. H-E-B products were sold in Texas, Van Camp’s in Florida, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, while Trader Joe’s products were distributed in D.C. and 18 states. Genova brand tuna was sold at Costco in Georgia and Florida, as well as at various retailers in other states.

Canned tuna recalled from largest retailers in US over ‘potentially fatal’ flaw https://t.co/B1mjnA11re pic.twitter.com/qJVb928syg

— New York Post (@nypost) February 11, 2025

Botulism Risk and Consumer Safety

The primary concern driving this recall is the potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause botulism, a severe and potentially fatal foodborne illness. This bacterium thrives in low-oxygen environments, such as improperly sealed canned goods, and produces toxins that can lead to serious health complications.

Symptoms of botulism can include difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and in severe cases, death. Given the gravity of these potential health risks, consumers are strongly advised to take this recall seriously. Those who have purchased the affected products should either discard them immediately or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Identifying Affected Products

Consumers should be on the lookout for canned tuna products with “Best Used By” dates ending in 2027 and 2028. It’s crucial to check any canned tuna in your pantry against the recall list, regardless of where it was purchased. While no illnesses related to this recall have been reported to the FDA so far, the potential for harm remains significant.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Tri-Union Seafoods are working closely to ensure that all affected products are removed from store shelves and consumers are adequately informed about the recall. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of swift action in cases of potential food contamination.

Broader Implications for Food Safety

This recall has brought renewed attention to the broader issue of food safety in the United States. It highlights the ongoing need for rigorous quality control measures in food manufacturing and packaging processes. The incident has also reignited discussions about the effectiveness of current food safety regulations and oversight.

Some lawmakers, including Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.), have used this incident to advocate for the creation of a single, unified food safety agency. Proponents argue that such an agency could more effectively prevent contaminations, reduce the frequency of recalls, and ultimately better protect consumer health. As the recall unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of maintaining the highest standards of food safety across the entire supply chain.