A canned tuna recall has been issued in the United States after certain tuna products that were already recalled were accidentally sold again. The affected tuna may pose a serious health risk, and consumers are being urged to check their pantry immediately.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the recall involves specific canned tuna products that could allow dangerous bacteria to grow if consumed.
This article explains which tuna is recalled, where it was sold, how to check your cans, and what to do next.
Why This Canned Tuna Is Being Recalled
The recall was issued because of a manufacturing issue with the pull-tab lid on certain canned tuna products. When the lid seal is compromised, bacteria can grow inside the can without obvious signs like smell or discoloration.
The main concern is botulism, a rare but potentially life-threatening illness caused by toxins produced in improperly sealed foods.
Even if the tuna looks normal, it may still be unsafe to eat.
Which Tuna Products Are Recalled
The recall primarily affects Genova Yellowfin Tuna products that were mistakenly distributed after an earlier recall.
Recalled products include:
- Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil (4-pack cans)
- Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt
These products have specific UPC codes and best-by dates, most commonly extending into 2028.
Consumers should not rely only on the brand name. Always check the UPC code and date printed on the can to confirm whether your tuna is affected.
The tuna was produced by Tri‑Union Seafoods, the parent company of the Genova brand.
Where the Recalled Tuna Was Sold
The recalled tuna was sold in multiple grocery chains across nine U.S. states.
Stores that received the affected tuna include:
- Meijer stores in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin
- Giant Food locations in Maryland and Virginia
- Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions stores in California
If you purchased canned tuna from any of these stores in recent months, it is important to double-check your pantry, even if you believe the product was already recalled once.
How to Check If Your Tuna Is Recalled
Follow these steps to see if your canned tuna is part of the recall:
- Find the brand name on the label (Genova).
- Locate the UPC code, usually printed near the barcode.
- Check the “Best If Used By” date stamped on the can.
- Compare this information with official recall notices from the FDA or the manufacturer.
- If your can matches the recall details, do not open or taste the tuna.
If you are unsure, it is safer to treat the product as recalled and dispose of it properly.
What Is the Health Risk?
The biggest risk linked to this canned tuna recall is botulism.
Botulism can cause serious symptoms, including:
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Muscle weakness
- Blurred or double vision
- Shortness of breath
- Paralysis in severe cases
Symptoms can appear hours or days after eating contaminated food. Anyone who has already consumed recalled tuna and feels unwell should seek medical care immediately.
What To Do If You Have Recalled Tuna
If you discover that you have one of the recalled tuna products:
- Do not eat it, even if it smells or looks fine
- Do not open the can
- Return the product to the store for a full refund, if possible
- If returning is not an option, dispose of the tuna safely in a sealed bag
Consumers can also contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly for assistance. The company is offering retrieval kits and replacement coupons for affected products.
Customer support is available by phone and email during normal business hours.
Is All Canned Tuna Unsafe Right Now?
No. This recall only affects specific products and batches.
Most canned tuna on store shelves is safe to eat and not impacted by this recall. However, this situation highlights why it is important to:
- Keep an eye on food recall alerts
- Store canned foods properly
- Avoid consuming damaged or leaking cans
If a can appears swollen, leaking, or difficult to open, it should always be discarded, even if it is not part of a recall.
Why This Recall Matters
Food recalls like this one show how small manufacturing issues can create serious health risks. In this case, the problem was not contamination during cooking, but a packaging defect that allowed bacteria to grow over time.
Because canned foods are often stored for months or years, checking recall notices is especially important.
Many people keep tuna as a pantry staple, which is why this recall has drawn widespread attention across the U.S.
