Tri-Union seafoods pulls multiple canned tuna products over potential botulism risk.
Tri-Union Seafoods, a subsidiary of Thai Union Group, has issued a voluntary recall for several canned tuna items sold under the Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s brands. The move comes after a manufacturing defect in the “easy-open” pull tab lid raised concerns about possible contamination with Clostridium botulinum, a dangerous form of food poisoning.
If you’ve recently purchased canned tuna, check your kitchen shelves right away. Products under Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s labels could be compromised due to faulty lids that might leak over time or allow bacteria to grow. Tri-Union Seafoods is urging consumers to stop using these cans immediately, even if there is no foul odor or visible sign of spoilage.
Tri-Union Seafoods confirmed that the recalled cans reached multiple states, potentially placing both shoppers and retail workers at risk. From Trader Joe’s outlets in Delaware and Ohio to H-E-B stores in Texas, a wide consumer base could be affected. Meanwhile, grocery employees—tasked with managing returns and addressing customer safety concerns—play a critical socio-labor role by assisting communities across these states. Prompt awareness and responsible handling of recalled products can help protect public health and safeguard the workforce.
Why this voluntary recall matters to households and local communities in the United States?
Many families rely on canned tuna as an affordable protein source. A recall of this scale can disrupt household meal planning and place extra stress on local food retailers. Moreover, smaller towns or rural communities in states like Kansas or Nebraska may face limited shopping options, making safe access to quality food a socio-labor issue affecting both consumers and store personnel.
Below is a quick reference list of some affected brands and where they were sold. Always check the specific can codes and “Best if Used By” dates:
- Trader Joe’s: Delaware, Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, and more
- H-E-B: Texas
- Genova: Costco in Florida and Georgia; other major retailers in several Southern states
- Van Camp’s: Walmart and select independent grocers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey
Table of Key Distribution Areas and Brands
| Brand | Key States/Regions | Notable Retailers |
|---|---|---|
| Trader Joe’s | DE, IL, MI, NE, NY, NC (etc.) | Trader Joe’s Stores |
| H-E-B | TX | H-E-B Stores |
| Genova | FL, GA, AL, CA (etc.) | Costco, Publix, Walmart |
| Van Camp’s | PA, FL, NJ | Walmart, Independent Retail |
Make sure to double-check the lot codes and expiration dates on the bottom of the cans. If your product is part of the recall, you can return it for a full refund, discard it, or contact Tri-Union Seafoods for a retrieval kit and replacement coupon.
Staying informed is crucial for safeguarding your household and broader community. If you suspect you have purchased an affected can, do not eat the tuna—even if there’s no noticeable spoilage. Return it to the store or contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly for instructions. This recall does not impact other Tri-Union Seafoods products, and the company emphasizes its commitment to food safety.