A previously recalled canned tuna product has reentered the market in nine U.S. states, prompting a renewed warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Tri-Union Seafoods distributed the affected 5-ounce cans, which were initially recalled in February 2025 due to possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that can cause botulism. The latest recall, issued last week, was triggered after a third-party distributor “inadvertently distributed quarantined canned tuna,” according to the FDA.
The tuna was sold under the brand name Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil and Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Retailers included Meijer, Giant Foods, Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions.
The recalled products were found for sale in California, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Customers should look for the following products:
– Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 5.0 oz 4-pack (UPC 4800073265) with “use by” dates of Jan. 21, 2028, or Jan. 24, 2028
– Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt 5.0 oz (UPC 4800013275) with a “use by” date of Jan. 17, 2028
The FDA advises consumers not to eat the product, even if it appears normal. Anyone who has consumed the tuna and experiences symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
“Recall firms and supply-chain stakeholders should have clear, enforceable processes to ensure recalled items are fully contained and cannot be redistributed,” said Chris Harvey, senior client services vice president at Sedgwick and a product recall expert, in an interview with TheStreet.
Harvey noted that while botulism-related recalls are rare, they are serious. “Botulism risks appear more frequently in seafood products than in many other categories, but they remain uncommon,” he said.
The FDA has recorded 60 tuna-related recalls since 2015, with only three involving Clostridium botulinum.
Consumers are advised to return the product to the store for a full refund, dispose of it, or request a retrieval kit and replacement coupon from Tri-Union Seafoods at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or 833-374-0171. Support hours are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
Botulism symptoms can occur hours to two weeks after consuming contaminated food and may include double vision, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and muscle paralysis. The illness can be fatal if breathing muscles are affected. According to the Cleveland Clinic, prompt treatment is critical.
