Earlier on Feb. 8, 2025, Tri-Union Seafoods issued a voluntary recall for certain canned tuna products that may be affected by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, a rare but dangerous bug that can cause botulism. The recall also applies to products that were sold under different brand names at large retailers across the country.
Tuna Recall 2025
The recall was due to a defect in the “easy open” pull-tab lids that are used on some canned tuna products. While this defect remains a lesser-known problem, it can compromise the seal, making it possible for Clostridium botulinum to grow. The affected brands and distribution areas are:
H-E-B: Distributed in Texas
Trader Joe’s: Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin.
Genova (7 oz.): Sold at Costco locations in Florida and Georgia.
Genova (5 oz.): Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and independents: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas.
Van Camp’s: At Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey.
Consumers are advised to look in their pantries for these products and not consume them, even if they appear healthy. As of Feb. 7, 2025, no illnesses have been reported. If you are ill as a result of eating any of these products, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Understanding Botulism
Botulism is a life-threatening form of food poisoning that is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum. Symptoms typically appear within 18 to 36 hours after eating contaminated food but can appear as early as six hours and as late as 10 days after eating. Common symptoms include:
- Double or blurred vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty swallowing
- Muscle weakness
Left untreated, botulism can paralyze the muscles involved in breathing and can be fatal. If you see any of these signs, you should get medical care right away.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who purchased the recalled tuna products should not eat them. Instead, they can return the products to the retailer for a full refund, dispose of them in the trash, or call Tri-Union Seafoods directly for a retrieval kit and replacement coupon. Consumers with questions may contact our support center by email at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or by telephone at 833-374-0171.
Canadian Recall Due to Allergen
The CFIA also issued a recent recall for certain Century flaked light tuna products due to undeclared wheat that could be dangerous for people with wheat allergies or gluten-related disorders. The affected products are:
Tuna Flakes in Hot & Spicy Sauce (180 g)- Hot & Spicy
Hot & Spicy Style, Flaked Light Tuna (180 g)
Tuna Value Pack — Flakes in Oil, Hot & Spicy (4 x 180 g)
Consumers who are sensitive to wheat or gluten should not eat them and are advised to return the products to the place of purchase or discard them. The recall has not been associated with any adverse effects.
Conclusion
The recalls remind consumers to be vigilant about food safety and labeling. Consumers are urged to keep track of recalls and check items periodically. If you own one of the recalled products, please be guided by the directive that has been issued to safeguard your health and safety.
