Tuna cans sold at Walmart, Trader Joe’s, and more recalled over fatal contamination risk

Some tuna products available at major U.S. retailers have been recalled over a possible contamination hazard.

Certain tuna products sold at major U.S. retailers have been recalled due to a potential contamination risk.

On Friday, Tri-Union Seafoods voluntarily recalled specific canned tuna products sold under the Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s brands. These items were distributed across the country at stores including Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Costco, Kroger, and Publix.

A press release from the company stated that the recall was initiated after its supplier identified a manufacturing flaw in the “easy open” lids of the tuna cans. The defect might “compromise the integrity of the product seal (especially over time), causing it to leak, or worse, be contaminated with clostridium botulinum,” a bacteria that causes foodborne botulism and can be fatal.

The U.S. World Health Organization warns that “Clostridium botulinum can grow and produce toxins in food prior to consumption.” Consuming food contaminated with this bacteria can lead to foodborne botulism, which presents symptoms such as “fatigue, weakness, and vertigo, usually followed by blurred vision, dry mouth and difficulty in swallowing and speaking.”

Tri-Union Seafoods has advised customers not to consume the recalled tuna, even if it “does not look or smell spoiled.” The company also recommends seeking immediate medical attention if symptoms develop.

As of February 10, “no illnesses associated with the recalled products have been reported and the recall is being conducted to ensure consumer safety.”

The recalled tuna cans labeled H-E-B were available in retail stores throughout Texas. Meanwhile, Trader Joe’s branded tuna cans were sold in 19 states, including New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.

Genova’s seven-ounce cans were stocked at Costco locations in Florida and Georgia. The five-ounce Genova cans were distributed through Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and independent retailers across 10 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, and Georgia.

Tuna cans with the Van Camp’s brand label were sold at Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey.