- Date Issued: February 7, 2025
- Announced by: FDA on February 10, 2025
- Company: Tri-Union Seafoods
- Product: Canned tuna (Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, Trader Joe’s)
- Issue: Potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum
- Details: Faulty “easy open” pull tab lids may compromise can integrity
- Action Required: Consumers should dispose of affected cans or return them for a refund
What happened?
Tri-Union Seafoods has voluntarily recalled select lots of canned tuna under the Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s brand names due to a potential risk of botulism, a serious foodborne illness. The issue stems from a manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull-tab lids, which could compromise the seal and allow harmful bacteria to grow. While no illnesses have been reported yet, the company is acting out of an abundance of caution.
Affected products
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Can Code | Best By Date |
Genova | Solid White Tuna in Olive Oil | 5 oz | 4800000215 | S94N 42K, S94N 43K, S94N 44K, S94N D1L | 12/12/2027 – 1/24/2028 |
Genova | Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil | 5 oz | 4800013265 | S84N D1N, S84N D2M | 1/13/2028 – 1/17/2028 |
Genova | Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 4 Pack | 5 oz | 4800073265 | S84N 41M, S84N 42M, S84N 42N, S84N 43N, S84N D1L, S84N D3L | 12/13/2027 – 1/24/2028 |
Genova | Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 6 Pack | 7 oz | 4800063267 | S84N D1D, S84N D3D, S84N D2D | 1/21/2028 – 1/27/2028 |
Genova | Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt | 5 oz | 4800013275 | S88N D1M | 1/17/2028 |
Van Camp’s | Solid Light Tuna in Oil | 5 oz | 4800025015 | S83N 45K | 12/2/2027 |
Van Camp’s | Solid Light Tuna in Oil 4 Pack | 5 oz | 4800075015 | S83N 45K | 12/2/2027 |
Trader Joe’s | Solid Light Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil | 5 oz | 51403 | S74N D2M | 1/10/2028 |
Trader Joe’s | Solid White Tuna in Olive Oil | 5 oz | 99287 | S94N D3N, S94N D4N | 1/13/2028 |
Trader Joe’s | Solid White Tuna in Water | 5 oz | 99285 | S92N D1L, S92N D2L | 1/9/2028 |
Trader Joe’s | Solid White Water Low Sodium | 5 oz | 95836 | S91N 41K, S91N 43M, S91N 44M | 12/12/2027 – 12/13/2027 |
Trader Joe’s | Solid White Water No Salt Added | 5 oz | 99284 | S90N D2N | 1/8/2028 |
Trader Joe’s | Solid White Water No Salt Added | 5 oz | – | S90N D1M, S90N D2N | 1/9/2028 |
H-E-B | Solid White Tuna in Water 4 Pack | 5 oz | 4122043345 | S9FA 45K, S9FA 46K | 12/12/2027 |
The recalled products were distributed across multiple states, including Texas, Florida, New York, and California, through retailers like Walmart, Costco, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s.
What caused the issue?
The recall stems from a packaging defect in the easy-open lids, which may lead to product leaks and contamination. The primary concern is Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can produce dangerous toxins. If consumed, it can cause botulism, a potentially fatal illness with symptoms such as:
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty breathing
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain
Who is at risk?
- Young children – Their immune systems are still developing.
- Older adults – They may have weaker immune defenses.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems include people with chronic illnesses or undergoing treatments that compromise immunity.
- What should I do if I have one of the recalled cans?
Do not consume it. Return it to the store for a refund or safely dispose of it. - How do I know if my can is affected?
Check the UPC and can codes listed above against the ones on your product. - What are the symptoms of botulism?
Symptoms include blurred vision, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and nausea. - Can I get botulism from touching the can?
No, botulism only occurs from ingesting contaminated food. However, leaking cans should be handled with care. - Has anyone gotten sick from this recall?
No illnesses have been reported as of now. - Is this recall limited to certain stores?
No, the affected products were sold nationwide in multiple retailers. - Can I cook the tuna to kill the bacteria?
Cooking does not reliably eliminate botulinum toxin, so do not risk consuming it. - What if I already ate the tuna?
If you experience any symptoms of botulism, seek medical attention immediately. - Will I be refunded if I return the product?
Yes, retailers are offering full refunds for returned products. - How can I contact Tri-Union Seafoods?
Email [email protected] or call 833-374-0171 for assistance.
Here’s what you should do
If you have any of the affected canned tuna products:
- Do not consume them, even if they look or smell fine.
- Check the label for the affected UPC codes and best-by dates.
- Return the product to the retailer for a full refund or safely dispose of it.
- Contact Tri-Union Seafoods at [email protected] or 833-374-0171 for more information.
Behind the brand
Tri-Union Seafoods, based in El Segundo, CA, is a Thai Union Group subsidiary and a leading canned seafood supplier. This wasn’t the only recall for contamination this past week—Jack and the Green Sprouts also recalled its alfalfa sprouts due to possible listeria contamination.
“Ensuring food safety is about more than compliance—it’s about protecting public health and trust. With high-risk items like ready-to-eat seafood and fresh produce, companies must prioritize rigorous testing and proactive measures. A strong safety culture isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for long-term success in today’s market.” Eran Mizrahi, Source86’s CEO.
Ensuring safe eats
This recall underscores the importance of rigorous quality control measures in food manufacturing, particularly for canned seafood. Companies must:
- Regularly inspect packaging materials for defects.
- Implement rigorous testing to detect bacterial contamination.
- Educate consumers on proper storage and handling.
For bulk buyers, wholesalers, and private label brands, choosing a supplier with robust safety measures is crucial. If you’re looking for high-quality ingredients from trusted sources, contact Source86 today to discuss our premium selection!
