A concerning food safety alert has been issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Tri-Union Seafoods regarding a voluntary recall of certain canned tuna products. Due to potential issues with product sealing, some batches of canned tuna may contain botulinum toxin, which can cause botulism—a form of food poisoning that can be fatal.
Identifying Affected Brands and Locations
Several popular brands of canned tuna are included in this recall. Consumers are advised to check this list to determine if they have purchased affected products.
Specifically, the recall includes:
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Trader Joe’s-label canned tuna from 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.
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Genova 7 oz. canned tuna from Costco in Florida and Georgia.
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Genova 5 oz. canned tuna from Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and other independent retailers in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas.
Safe Handling of Recalled Cans
If you find yourself in possession of recalled tuna cans, discard them immediately. Botulism toxins are invisible, odorless, and tasteless, so consuming even a small portion could be life-threatening.
For a rebate or replacement product, contact the store where you purchased the tuna or reach out to Tri-Union Seafoods at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or via phone at 833-374-0171.
It’s important to note that other products by Tri-Union Seafoods are not affected by this recall.
No Illnesses Reported Yet
Fortunately, no cases of botulism have been linked to the recalled products as of now.
Understanding Botulism
Botulism is a serious illness caused by neurotoxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. It can lead to paralysis, respiratory failure, and even death.
Most botulism cases occur from improperly preserved home-cooked foods, not commercial products. To prevent botulism, always check that canned goods are sealed properly. Bulging containers or odd odors are signs of contamination, and you should discard such items immediately.
Botulism Outbreaks: A Rare but Serious Threat
Botulism outbreaks are uncommon but can be extremely dangerous. In 2023, a tragic case in Bordeaux, France, saw a woman die and others fall ill after consuming homemade sardine preserves. Meanwhile, in 2019, U.S. health departments reported 21 cases of foodborne botulism to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Stay Informed and Take Action
Ensuring food safety is a shared responsibility. Stay vigilant by checking for food recalls, keeping your canned goods sealed, and discarding any suspicious containers. For more advice on preventing foodborne illnesses, visit resources like the CDC.
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Let’s work together to make our food experiences safe and enjoyable. Stay healthy!
