Tri-Union Seafoods Announces Voluntary Recall of Canned Tuna Due to Potential Botulism Risk
Tri-Union Seafoods, a subsidiary of the Thai Union Group, has issued a voluntary recall of certain canned tuna products sold under popular brand names such as Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s. The recall was initiated due to a manufacturing defect in the "easy open" pull-tab can lids, which could compromise the product’s seal over time. This defect may lead to contamination by Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that produces a potentially deadly toxin causing botulism. The company emphasized that the recall was taken "out of an abundance of caution" to protect consumer safety, even though no illnesses have been reported to date. Consumers are urged not to consume the affected products, even if they appear or smell normal, and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms of illness.
Where Were the Recalled Canned Tuna Products Sold?
The recalled tuna products were distributed to various retailers across multiple states. Customers who purchased tuna under the H-E-B label should be aware that these products were sold exclusively in Texas. Trader Joe’s-branded tuna was distributed to a wider range of states, including Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C.
For Genova-branded tuna, 7-ounce cans were sold at Costco locations in Florida and Georgia, while the 5-ounce cans were available at Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and independent retailers in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas. Van Camp’s-branded tuna was sold at Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey.
Product Details and Identification of Recalled Tuna The recall applies to specific lots of canned tuna, which can be identified by the can codes and "Best if Used By" dates printed on the bottom of the cans. A full list of the affected products, including UPC numbers, is available online for consumers to verify if their purchased cans are part of the recall.
Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled tuna products are advised to take the following steps: return the cans to the retailer for a full refund, dispose of them safely, or contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly to request a retrieval kit and a coupon for a replacement product. The company also provides customer support via email at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com and by phone at (833) 374-0171, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
What Consumers Should Do Next
It is crucial for consumers who have purchased the affected tuna products to take immediate action to ensure their safety. First, they should check the can codes and "Best if Used By" dates to confirm if their product is part of the recall. If it is, they should not consume the tuna under any circumstances, even if it appears or smells normal. Instead, they should either return the product to the retailer for a refund, dispose of it securely, or contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly for further assistance.
In addition to taking action regarding the recalled products, consumers should remain vigilant about their health. Botulism is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness, so anyone who has consumed the recalled tuna and is experiencing symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, muscle weakness, double vision, or difficulty breathing should seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment for botulism is critical and can prevent severe complications or even death.
Understanding Botulism: Symptoms and Risks
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. This toxin attacks the body’s nervous system, leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, muscle paralysis, drooping eyelids, blurred vision, slurred speech, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, botulism can be fatal if left untreated.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), botulism typically occurs when spores of the bacteria are ingested and grow in the body, producing the toxin. While botulism is rare, it can occur in improperly preserved or canned foods where the spores are allowed to grow. Store-bought foods, including the recalled canned tuna, can also pose a risk if they are contaminated.
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of botulism, it is essential to act quickly. Botulism is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment with antitoxins and supportive care can significantly improve outcomes. The CDC urges anyone showing signs of botulism to seek immediate medical attention without delay.
A Commitment to Safety and Quality
Tri-Union Seafoods has emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest safety and quality standards. The company stated that this recall affects only the specific lots of canned tuna with the defective pull-tab lids and does not impact any other products in its portfolio. By taking proactive measures to address the issue, Tri-Union Seafoods demonstrate
