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Canned Tuna Recall Due to Botulism Concerns: What You Need to Know and Your Legal Rights
Massive Recall of Canned Tuna Products Sold at Major U.S. Retailers
A widespread recall has been issued for certain canned tuna products sold at major grocery chains, including Costco, Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Publix, Kroger, Safeway, and H-E-B, due to potential contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism, a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning.
The recall, announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on February 12, 2025, affects multiple brands, including Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s. The products were distributed across dozens of states and Washington, D.C.
Consumers are strongly advised not to eat the recalled tuna, even if it appears safe, as botulism contamination may not always be visible or cause a noticeable odor. If you have purchased any of the affected products, you should return them for a refund, dispose of them safely, or contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
Why Is This Recall So Serious?
The recall stems from a manufacturing defect in the “easy-open” pull-tab lids, which may have compromised the seal on some cans. This defect can allow air and bacteria to enter the can over time, creating a perfect environment for botulinum toxin to develop.
Botulism poisoning is a medical emergency that can lead to:
- Muscle paralysis
- Respiratory failure
- Difficulty swallowing and speaking
- Weakness and blurred vision
- Death in severe cases
Symptoms can appear anywhere from a few hours to several days after consuming contaminated food. Immediate medical attention is crucial for survival and recovery.
Who Is at Risk?
Anyone who consumes the recalled tuna could be at risk, but certain populations are more vulnerable to severe complications, including:
- Infants and young children
- Pregnant women
- Older adults
- Individuals with weakened immune systems
Given the serious health risks, consumers are urged to check their pantries and dispose of or return any affected products.
List of Recalled Tuna Products
The affected products were sold under multiple brand names and in various states:
- H-E-B label – Sold in Texas
- Trader Joe’s label – Distributed 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-ounce cans – Sold at Costco in Florida and Georgia
- Genova 5-ounce cans – Sold at Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and independent retailers in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas
- Van Camp’s label – Sold at Walmart and independent retailers in Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania
- Additional Walmart locations – Sold in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington
For specific can codes, best-by dates, and UPC numbers, consumers should visit the FDA’s official recall notice or check with their retailer.
What Should You Do If You Purchased Recalled Tuna?
If you have any of the recalled canned tuna, take the following steps immediately:
- Do NOT consume it – Even if it appears fine, the contamination risk is too high.
- Return it – Many retailers are offering full refunds for affected products.
- Dispose of it safely – If returning is not an option, seal it in a plastic bag and discard it in the trash to prevent accidental consumption.
- Monitor for symptoms – If you or a loved one has eaten the recalled tuna, watch for signs of botulism and seek medical help immediately if symptoms appear.
- Contact the manufacturer – Consumers can reach Tri-Union Seafoods for more information at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or (833) 374-0171 between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM EST, Monday through Friday.
Can You Take Legal Action for Food Poisoning?
If you or a family member has suffered serious illness, hospitalization, or lasting complications after consuming contaminated food, you may have legal grounds to pursue compensation. Food producers, manufacturers, and distributors have a legal duty to ensure the safety of their products. When they fail to prevent contamination, they may be held liable for the harm caused.
Potential Legal Claims for Foodborne Illness Cases
Victims of food poisoning due to negligence may be able to file:
- Product Liability Claims – If a defective product caused your illness, the manufacturer could be held responsible.
- Wrongful Death Claims – If botulism poisoning results in a fatality, the victim’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.
Compensation in Food Poisoning Cases
A successful legal claim could help cover:
- Medical bills and hospitalization costs
- Lost wages from missed work
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care for lasting complications
Why Choose Flanagan & Bodenheimer for Your Florida Food Poisoning Case
At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent individuals and families harmed by foodborne illnesses, defective products, and corporate negligence. We are committed to holding food manufacturers and retailers accountable when their negligence results in serious illness or death.
Why Clients Trust Us:
- Exclusive Focus on Injury & Wrongful Death Cases – We do not handle general legal matters. We specialize in personal injury and consumer protection cases.
- Proven Results – We have secured millions of dollars for clients harmed by corporate negligence.
- Personalized Legal Representation – Unlike large firms, we maintain a small caseload to give every case the attention it deserves.
- No Upfront Fees – We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay unless we win your case.
Contact a Florida Food Poisoning Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has suffered serious illness, hospitalization, or lasting complications due to contaminated canned tuna or another defective food product, you may be entitled to compensation.
Call Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm at (305) 638-4143 for a free consultation today. You can also complete our online contact form to schedule a virtual or in-person consultation.
We proudly serve clients in Hollywood, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and throughout Florida. Let us help you hold negligent companies accountable and fight for the justice you deserve.