Nationwide tuna recall hits Trader Joe’s, Publix, Costco, Walmart, and other retailers over Botulinum fears

California-based seafood manufacturer Tri-Union Seafoods has issued a voluntary recall of select canned tuna products due to a potential contamination risk from Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that can cause serious and potentially fatal food poisoning.  

The recall follows a supplier notification that a manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull-tab lids may compromise the product’s seal, leading to leaks or contamination over time.

While no illnesses have been reported, Tri-Union say it’s taking precautionary measures to ensure consumer safety. 

Which products were impacted?

The recalled tuna products were distributed across multiple retailers nationwide under the Genova, Van Camp’s, HEB, and Trader Joe’s brands.

The affected brands and locations include:  

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.
• Wisconsin

Genova 7 oz

• Costco in Florida and Georgia

Genova 5 oz 

• Harris Teeter
• Publix
• H-E-B
• Kroger
• Safeway
• Walmart

Genova 5 oz (independent retailers)

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Arizona
• California
• Florida
• Georgia
• North Carolina
• New Jersey
• Tennessee
• Texas

Van Camp’s label

• Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey

Tri-Union Seafoods has confirmed that no other products are affected by this recall.  

What Is Botulism?  

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the toxin affects the nervous system, potentially leading to paralysis and breathing difficulties, and can be fatal if untreated.  

What are the symptoms of Botulism?

• Difficulty swallowing  
• Muscle weakness
• Double or blurry vision  
• Drooping eyelids  
• Slurred speech  
• Difficulty breathing  
• Difficulty moving the eyes  
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain (foodborne cases) 
• In infants: Weak crying, poor feeding, drooping eyelids  

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.  

What if I have a recalled tuna product?

Consumers are urged not to eat the recalled tuna, even if it looks or smells normal, and to return the recalled cans to the store for a full refund. Contact Tri-Union Seafoods for a retrieval kit and a replacement coupon.  

You can also read the recall notice on the website of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

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