At a Glance
- Defective Genova Yellowfin Tuna cans, recalled last February, were mistakenly shipped to stores this week
- The faulty pull-tab lids could let in Clostridium botulinum, a potentially deadly bacterium
- Six chains across nine states received the product, including Meijer, Giant Foods, Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions
- Why it matters: Eating the tuna could cause fatal food poisoning; consumers should discard or return cans immediately
Federal regulators are sounding the alarm after recalled cans of Genova Yellowfin Tuna were accidentally sent to grocery stores in nine states, putting shoppers at risk of potentially fatal botulism poisoning.
The Food and Drug Administration says the cans were part of a recall Tri-Union Seafoods issued last February when it discovered the easy-open pull tabs on some lids were defective. That flaw can break the can’s seal, allowing Clostridium botulinum bacteria to grow. The bacterium produces a toxin that causes botulism, a rare but life-threatening illness.
Which Stores Got the Tainted Tuna
The distributor error sent the quarantined tuna to:
- Meijer locations in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin
- Giant Foods stores in Maryland and Virginia
- Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions outlets in California
Identify the Recalled Products
Consumers should check their pantries for these specific items:
| Product | UPC | Can Code | Best-by Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil, 4-pack of 5-oz cans | 4800073265 | S84N D2L | Jan. 21, 2028 |
| Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil, 4-pack of 5-oz cans | 4800073265 | S84N D3L | Jan. 24, 2028 |
| Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt, 5-oz can | 4800013275S88N | D1M 1/17/2028 | Jan. 17, 2028 |
Health Warning
The FDA stresses that the tuna “should not be used even if it does not look or smell spoiled.” Early symptoms of botulism include weakness, dizziness, double vision, and trouble speaking or swallowing. Anyone who feels ill after eating the product should seek immediate medical attention.
What to Do Now
- Discard the cans or return them to the store for a full refund
- Call Tri-Union Seafoods at (833) 374-0171, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. ET
- Email questions to support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com
Key Takeaways
- A third-party distributor error reversed last year’s recall, sending dangerous tuna back onto shelves
- Nine states and six grocery chains are affected
- Botulism can be fatal; consumers must act quickly to identify and dispose of the product
