The US Food and Drug Administration has issued an urgent consumer warning after canned tuna that was under a previous recall was accidentally distributed to retailers across several states. This concerning development involves products from the Genova brand, manufactured by Tri-Union Seafoods, which were supposed to remain quarantined.
How the Recalled Tuna Reached Shelves
According to an official FDA alert released on Monday, a third-party contractor working for Tri-Union Seafoods "inadvertently" shipped a batch of recalled tuna to stores. This shipment should never have occurred, as the products were part of a quarantine established during a recall initiated in February 2025.
The Original Recall and Critical Defect
The initial recall was triggered after Tri-Union Seafoods identified a critical defect in the easy-open pull tab lids on certain cans. Federal officials have emphasised that this defect is not merely a packaging issue. The compromised cans can leak and, more alarmingly, become contaminated with Clostridium botulinum.
This bacterium can cause botulism, a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning. The risk exists even if the product shows no obvious signs of spoilage, making visual inspection unreliable for consumers.
Affected Retailers and Geographic Spread
The mistakenly shipped recalled cans were distributed to major grocery chains in specific regions. Consumers in the following areas are advised to exercise particular caution:
- Meijer stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
- Giant Foods locations in Maryland and Virginia.
- Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions stores in California.
Identifying the Recalled Products
Shoppers are urged to check their pantries for two specific Genova Yellowfin Tuna products. Identification can be made using the UPC code, can codes, and the "Best if Used By" date.
- Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 5.0 oz 4 Pack
- UPC: 4800073265
- Can Codes: S84N D2L or S84N D3L
- Best if Used By: January 21, 2028
- Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt 5.0 oz
- UPC: 4800013275
- Can Code: S88N D1M
- Best if Used By: January 17, 2028
Critical Health Advice and Consumer Actions
The FDA and company officials have issued stern warnings. Consumers must not consume this tuna under any circumstances, even if it appears and smells normal. Botulism toxin is odourless and tasteless.
Anyone who has eaten the product and begins to feel unwell should seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include blurred vision, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness.
For those who find the recalled cans in their possession, the recommended course of action is to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Proper disposal is crucial to prevent any accidental consumption.
This incident highlights a significant breakdown in the food safety supply chain, where a product deemed unsafe for consumption due to a severe biological hazard has re-entered the market through an administrative error. Regulatory scrutiny on third-party logistics providers is likely to intensify following this serious lapse.
