Warning: Popular Tuna Brands Recalled Over Life-Threatening Botulism Risk

Tri-Union Seafoods has issued an urgent recall of select canned tuna products due to a defect in the “easy-open” lids, which could lead to Clostridium botulinum contamination—the bacterium responsible for botulism, a rare but potentially deadly illness. Even unopened cans may pose a serious health risk. The FDA recommends that consumers not use the product even if the tuna does not look or smell spoiled.

Recalled Brands and Distribution:

• Genova®: Distributed in Florida and Georgia through Costco; also available in Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas at retailers including Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and independent stores.
• Van Camp’s®: Sold at Walmart and independent retailers in multiple states.
• H-E-B®: Available exclusively in Texas.
• Trader Joe’s®: Distributed 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.

Are People Getting Sick?

No illnesses have been reported to date. The recall remains under investigation.

What is Botulism?:

Clostridium botulinum is a type of bacteria that is toxic to the nervous system and causes botulism illness. Symptoms of botulism can include difficulty breathing, blurred or double vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, botulism symptoms can cause paralysis and be fatal.

What Should You Do Next?:

1. Identify: Check if you have purchased any of the recalled products. Examine the UPC codes for recalled product.
2. Do not consume:  Do not consume the product under any circumstances.
3. Medical: If you consumed the product and suspect illness immediately seek medical attention. Do not throw away any opened or unopened product. Preserve it for testing.
4. Report: Contact your local health department if you have any questions.

How Did This Happen?

Food manufacturers have a strict duty to ensure the safety and integrity of their products. Outbreaks of foodborne botulism are rare, according to the CDC. Common sources of foodborne botulism are homemade foods that are improperly canned, preserved, or fermented. Consumers who suffer food-poisoning from contaminated food products may have legal recourse against manufacturers, distributors and retailers who sold the product.

Want More Information?

Check the FDA website.

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