Impact of Canned Tuna Recall on Major Retailers: Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Others

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In February 2025, Tri-Union Seafoods initiated a voluntary recall of specific canned tuna products due to a manufacturing defect in the “easy-open” pull-tab lids. 

This defect could compromise the seal integrity, potentially leading to contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium responsible for botulism—a rare but potentially fatal illness.

The recall affects products sold under various brand names, including those at major retailers such as Costco, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, and H-E-B.

Impact on Retailers:

• Costco: The recall includes Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil (7-ounce cans) sold at Costco locations in Florida and Georgia. Costco has promptly removed the affected products from its shelves and notified customers who purchased them.

• Trader Joe’s: Specific lots of Trader Joe’s Solid White Tuna in Water have been recalled. The retailer has issued warnings to customers and offered refunds or exchanges for the affected products.

• Walmart: Van Camp’s Solid Light Tuna in Oil, sold at Walmart and other independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey, is part of the recall. Walmart has taken steps to inform customers and remove the products from their stores.

Consumer Guidance:

Consumers are advised to check their pantries for the recalled products. The affected cans can be identified by specific UPC codes and “Best if Used By” dates, which are detailed in the FDA’s recall notice.

Even if a can appears normal, it is crucial not to consume the product, as botulism does not cause obvious spoilage signs.

Instead, return the recalled cans to the retailer for a full refund or dispose of them by sealing them in a plastic bag before discarding.

Health Implications:

Botulism is a severe form of food poisoning that can lead to difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and potentially death.

Symptoms typically begin 12 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food and can include weakness, dizziness, double vision, and trouble speaking or swallowing.

Immediate medical attention is essential if symptoms develop after consuming the recalled products.

Company Response:

Tri-Union Seafoods has emphasized its commitment to consumer safety by initiating this recall “out of an abundance of caution.”

The company is offering retrieval kits and coupons for replacement products to affected consumers. Customers can contact Tri-Union Seafoods at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or 833-374-0171 for assistance.

This recall underscores the importance of food safety protocols and the need for consumers to stay informed about potential risks associated with food products.

Retailers and manufacturers are working collaboratively to ensure public health and maintain trust in the food supply chain.

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