Major Canned Tuna Recall Hits Trader Joe’s, Walmart, and More—Here’s What You Need to Know

Tri-Union Seafoods has initiated a voluntary recall of select canned tuna products sold under the Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s brand names. This action comes after the discovery of a manufacturing defect that may compromise the product seal over time. Here’s what you need to know about the affected products, the risks involved, and what steps to take if you have purchased the recalled tuna.

Reason for the Recall

Tri-Union Seafoods has issued this voluntary recall as a precautionary measure after being alerted by its supplier about a manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull-tab can lids on select products. This defect could compromise the product’s seal over time, potentially leading to leaks or contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that causes a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning.

Products Affected by the Recall

The recalled canned tuna products were distributed to various retail stores across multiple states:

• H-E-B label – Sold exclusively in Texas.
• Trader Joe’s label – Available in 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. – Distributed through Costco in Florida and Georgia.
• Genova 5 oz. – Sold at 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 label – Available at Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey.

Consumers should check the bottom of their cans for specific can codes and “Best If Used By” dates, as well as the UPC numbers, to determine if their product is included in the recall.  A complete list of affected codes and dates is available in the table below:

This recall is limited to the specified canned tuna products and does not impact any other Tri-Union Seafoods items. All other products remain unaffected, as their packaging was not compromised by this manufacturing defect. In a press release, Tri-Union Seafoods said it remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.

Steps for Consumers Who Purchased the Recalled Products

Consumers should not eat the recalled canned tuna, even if it appears or smells normal. If you experience any symptoms of illness after consuming the product, seek medical attention immediately. While no illnesses have been reported, this recall is being conducted as a precaution to protect consumer health.

If you have an affected product, you may:

• Return it to the retailer for a full refund.
• Dispose of it safely.
• Contact Tri-Union Seafoods for a retrieval kit and a coupon for a replacement product.

For assistance, consumers can reach Tri-Union Seafoods via email at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or call 833-374-0171 (toll-free) Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST.

What Is Botulism?

Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by toxins produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. These toxins attack the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis, breathing difficulties, and, in severe cases, death.

It is commonly linked to improperly canned, preserved, or stored foods, where the bacteria can thrive in low-oxygen environments. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, blurred vision, slurred speech, muscle weakness, and respiratory distress. If you suspect you have botulism, seek immediate medical attention. It is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment, including antitoxin treatment and respiratory support.