Major Tuna Recall: Costco, Trader Joe's, and Walmart Affected

Several brands of canned tuna sold at major grocery stores across 26 states and the District of Columbia have been voluntarily recalled due to concerns about botulism. The recall, initiated by manufacturer Tri-Union Seafoods and announced by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), affects 13 products sold under various brand names including Genova, Van Camp’s, Trader Joe’s, and H-E-B. The issue stems from a manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull tab lids of certain tuna cans. This defect could compromise the seal, potentially leading to leakage and contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria responsible for causing botulism.

Understanding the Botulism Threat

Botulism is a serious, potentially fatal form of food poisoning. Caused by the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, it can cause difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that botulism is a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention if symptoms like difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, double vision, or blurred vision occur. Importantly, the toxin can affect individuals even if the tuna doesn't look or smell spoiled. Therefore, discarding any recalled cans is crucial, regardless of their apparent condition.

Recalled Tuna Products and Retailers

The recall impacts several brands and a wide geographical distribution. This includes:

• Trader Joe's: Products sold in 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.
• Costco: Genova 7-ounce cans in Florida and Georgia.
• Walmart: Genova 5-ounce cans, as well as Van Camp's tuna in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey. Also affected are Walmart stores in numerous additional states.
• Other Retailers: Genova 5-ounce cans were also sold at Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, and independent retailers across multiple states including Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas.
• H-E-B: Products sold in Texas.

Tri-Union Seafoods has provided a list of specific can codes and “Best If Used By” dates for the recalled products. Consumers are urged to check the FDA website for the complete list and UPC numbers to determine if their cans are affected. The company has stressed that this recall does not affect any other Tri-Union Seafoods products.

Locating the Recall Information

Consumers can access comprehensive information regarding affected products, UPC numbers and “Best If Used By” dates on the FDA website. The FDA website provides details on the recalled products and instructions on what to do if you have purchased the affected tuna. The importance of checking for specific can codes and “Best If Used By” dates cannot be overstated.

What to Do If You Have Recalled Tuna

If you have purchased any canned tuna from the affected product lines, Tri-Union Seafoods advises you to take immediate action. Do not consume the product. The company suggests three options:

1. Return the cans to the retailer for a full refund.
2. Dispose of the cans safely.
3. Contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly for a retrieval kit and a coupon for a replacement product. Contact can be made via email ([email protected]) or phone ((833) 374-0171), Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

The Importance of Food Safety

This large-scale recall underscores the crucial importance of food safety practices. While botulism is relatively rare, it is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. By diligently following manufacturer warnings and taking quick action when recalls are issued, consumers significantly reduce their risk of exposure to hazardous substances. This emphasizes that proactive measures, including regularly checking for food recalls and correctly storing food items, are essential for maintaining personal health and well-being. It's vital for individuals to remain informed and vigilant.

This incident serves as a reminder to always check the labels and recall information whenever you purchase canned goods. The safety and well-being of consumers should always be the top priority. Remember, foodborne illnesses can be prevented with careful attention to product safety guidelines and timely response to recalls. The FDA and Tri-Union Seafoods are committed to the highest safety standards.