Tri-Union Seafoods has issued a recall of several select canned tuna products due to serious health concerns linked to manufacturing defects. The voluntary recall was announced on February 7, 2025, and affects renowned brands including Trader Joe’s, Genova, Van Camp’s, and H-E-B. The company took this precautionary measure after its suppliers informed them of issues pertaining to the "easy open" pull tab lids, which may compromise the product seals over time.
This defect poses significant risks, particularly the potential introduction of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium capable of causing botulism, which can lead to life-threatening food poisoning. Although no illnesses have been reported so far connected to the recalled products, Tri-Union Seafoods emphasizes the importance of public safety and urges consumers not to use the affected products even if they appear and smell fine.
The impacted canned tuna products have been sold across various states, reaching numerous retail outlets. Specifically, the H-E-B branded products were distributed within Texas, Trader Joe's products reached consumers across states including Delaware, Illinois, and New York, and Genova tuna was available through retailers such as Costco and Walmart, particularly concentrated within Florida and Georgia. Alongside these brand names, Van Camp’s products were found at locations including Walmart and independent retailers primarily within New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
Consumers have been explicitly warned against consumption of the recalled cans. Tri-Union Seafoods has advised them to check if they possess any of the products. Should they find any, they can return the items to the place of purchase for a full refund or throw them away. The company also offers an alternative route of contacting them directly for retrieval kits and coupons for replacement products. Consumers can reach Tri-Union Seafoods via email at [email protected] or by calling 833-374-0171, available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST.
A comprehensive list detailing the affected lot codes and UPC numbers has been made available to assist customers. For example, specific UPCs include Genova Solid White Tuna, 5.0 oz (UPC 4800000215), with certain lot codes listed under Best If Used By dates up to 2028. The Trader Joe's brand features multiple varieties of solid light and solid white tuna, also identified by their respective UPC numbers and dates.
Despite the lack of reported illnesses associated with these products at this time, experts and the FDA echo Tri-Union’s sentiments underscoring the serious nature of botulism. The bacterium can lead to respiratory problems and even death, making it imperative for consumers to take the recall seriously.
“Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled,” stated Tri-Union Seafoods, reinforcing their commitment to upholding the highest safety and quality standards. They indicated this recall is not indicative of quality issues with all their products but specific to the ones impacted by the pull-tab manufacturing defect.
The public is encouraged to stay informed about updates pertaining to the recall and to examine their cupboards carefully for potentially affected cans. Tri-Union Seafoods is committed to rectifying this issue and maintaining transparency with consumers.
Food safety is of utmost importance, and recalls such as this serve as reminders of the vigilance needed from both producers and consumers to mitigate risks. Maintaining public health is not just the responsibility of companies but requires consumer awareness and action when necessary.