If you recently picked up canned tuna and thought, “This seems safe, it’s canned,” the FDA would like a word. Federal regulators are warning consumers to avoid specific cans of Genova Yellowfin Tuna after products tied to a botulism recall were mistakenly shipped back into stores across nine states … even though they were supposed to be quarantined. Ah, to be a fly on the wall in the room with management when this snafu was discovered.
What Happened?
The affected cans were part of a larger recall issued last February after Tri-Union Seafoods discovered defects in the tuna’s “easy open” pull-tab lids. According to the FDA, the faulty lids could allow the cans to leak or become contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism — a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning.
Those products were placed in quarantine. Then, for reasons that remain unclear, they were “inadvertently shipped by a third-party distributor” back to grocery stores, the FDA said. Basically, this was a giant logistical nightmare.
Where the Botulism by Tuna Roulette Might Strike
The recalled tuna was shipped to multiple major grocery chains, including:
- Meijer stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin
- Giant Food stores in Maryland and Virginia
- Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions stores in California
If you shop at any of those chains, it’s worth checking your pantry — even if the tuna looks and smells fine.
Which Products to Toss or Return
The FDA says consumers should immediately discard or return the following products:
- Four-packs of 5-ounce cans of Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil
- UPC: 4800073265
- Code numbers: S84N D2L (Best by Jan. 21, 2028)
- Code numbers: S84N D3L (Best by Jan. 24, 2028)
- 5-ounce cans of Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt
- UPC: 4800013275S88N
- Code numbers: D1M1
- Best by date: Jan. 17, 2028
If your can matches any of these details, the FDA says do not eat it — even if it looks normal.
What to Do if You’re Freaking Out
According to the FDA, consumers who feel unwell after consuming the product should seek immediate medical attention. For questions or refunds, Tri-Union Seafoods can be reached at (833) 374-0171 on weekdays or by email at [email protected].
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