If you recently stocked up on canned tuna, you might want to double-check your pantry. A nationwide recall has been issued for select canned tuna products that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns might be “contaminated” with a “potentially fatal form of food poisoning.”
Shoppers at Walmart, Costco and Trader Joe’s are being warned about a major contamination risk with cans of tuna that may contain potentially fatal toxins.
In a February 2025 press release, the FDA announced that Tri-Union Seafoods has voluntarily recalled certain Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s canned tuna products.
The FDA explains that the “easy open pull tab can lid on limited products encountered a manufacturing defect that may compromise the integrity of the product seal (especially over time), causing it to leak, or worse, be contaminated with clostridium botulinum, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning.”
What is botulism?
Botulism is a severe bacterial infection caused by a powerful neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum. The Cleveland Clinic explains that though it is rare, it can be deadly if not treated immediately.
The bacteria thrive in low-oxygen environments – such as improperly sealed canned goods – and can multiply without visible signs of spoilage.
Symptoms of botulism typically appear 12 to 36 hours after ingestion and may include:
- Drooping eyelids
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Double or blurred vision
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
Because botulism can cause paralysis, it is considered a medical emergency. Anyone experiencing symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Where the recalled cans were sold
Consumers are warned not to use the affected tuna, “even if it does not look or smell spoiled,” as Clostridium botulinum can grow in improperly sealed cans without visible signs of spoilage.
The recalled brands were distributed to major retailers across several states:
- H-E-B – Texas
- Trader Joe’s – Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and Wisconsin
- Genova 7 oz. – Costco in Florida and Georgia
- Genova 5 oz. – 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 – Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey
Check your cans
Want to know if your canned tuna is affected? Flip the can over and check the can codes and Best If Used By dates printed on the bottom.
Compare them with the official recall list provided by the FDA to see if your product is included.
What to do
If your tuna is on the recall list, here’s what you should do:
Return it for a full refund: Take the can back to the store where you purchased it.
Dispose of it safely: If returning isn’t an option, seal the can in a plastic bag and toss it in the trash.
Request a replacement: Contact the company directly for a retrieval kit and a replacement coupon.
The company said “the recall is being conducted to ensure consumer safety,” and that no illnesses associated with the product have been reported.
Please make sure you share this story with friends and family who shop at any of the above stores!
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