Tuna Recall: What Are the Symptoms of Botulism and What Should You Do?

Tuna Recall: What Are the Symptoms of Botulism and What Should You Do?

In February 2025, a widespread recall of canned tuna sparked concerns about botulism contamination, affecting major retailers like Costco, Trader Joe’s, and Walmart. Now, in January 2026, the FDA has announced that some of the recalled tuna was mistakenly shipped to stores in nine states, prompting renewed warnings. With the risk of botulism looming, it’s crucial to understand the symptoms of this potentially fatal illness and know what steps to take to protect yourself and your family.

Understanding the Tuna Recall

The initial recall in February 2025 by Tri-Union Seafoods involved canned tuna sold under several brand names, including Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s. The recall was initiated due to a manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull-tab lids of the cans. This defect could compromise the seal, potentially leading to leaks and contamination with Clostridium botulinum, the bacteria that causes botulism.

Recent Developments: Despite the initial recall, some of the quarantined tuna was accidentally shipped by a third-party distributor to stores in nine states in January 2026. The affected states include:

  • California
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Kentucky
  • Maryland
  • Michigan
  • Ohio
  • Virginia
  • Wisconsin

The recalled products include Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil and Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt.

What is Botulism?

Botulism is a rare but severe illness caused by a potent neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This toxin attacks the body’s nerves, leading to muscle paralysis, difficulty breathing, and even death. Foodborne botulism, the type associated with contaminated canned goods, occurs when the bacteria thrive and produce the toxin in improperly processed or preserved food.

Symptoms of Botulism

Symptoms of botulism typically appear within 12 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food, but they can sometimes emerge as late as 10 days after ingestion. The severity of symptoms depends on the amount of toxin ingested. Early signs of botulism include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain

As the illness progresses, more severe symptoms can develop, including:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Drooping eyelids
  • Difficulty swallowing or speaking
  • Muscle weakness
  • Respiratory problems
  • Paralysis

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Botulism is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent life-threatening complications.

What to Do If You Have Recalled Tuna

If you have purchased canned tuna recently, especially if you live in one of the affected states, it’s essential to check whether your product is part of the recall. Here’s what you should do:

  1. Check the Brand and Product Information: See if you have any of the recalled Genova Yellowfin Tuna products.
  2. Identify the Can Codes and “Best By” Dates: Look for the following information on the bottom of the can:
    • Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil (5 oz, 4-Pack):
      • UPC: 4800073265
      • Can Codes: S84N D2L, S84N D3L
      • “Best if Used By” Dates: 1/21/2028, 1/24/2028
    • Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt (5 oz):
      • UPC: 4800013275
      • Can Code: S88N D1M
      • “Best if Used By” Date: 1/17/2028
  3. Do Not Consume: If you have any recalled cans of tuna, do not open or eat them, even if they look and smell normal. Clostridium botulinum can grow in improperly sealed cans without visible signs of spoilage.
  4. Dispose of the Tuna Properly: Safely discard the can to prevent others from accidentally consuming it. Seal it in a plastic bag and place it in the trash.
  5. Request a Refund or Replacement: Return the recalled tuna to the store where you purchased it for a full refund. You can also contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly for a retrieval kit and a coupon for a replacement product. Contact them at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or 833-374-0171.

Treatment for Botulism

Botulism requires immediate medical treatment, which typically includes:

  • Antitoxin: Botulism antitoxin is administered to neutralize the toxin circulating in the bloodstream. It prevents the toxin from causing further harm but cannot reverse damage already done. The antitoxin is most effective when given early in the illness.
  • Breathing Support: In severe cases, botulism can paralyze the muscles involved in breathing, requiring the use of a mechanical ventilator. The ventilator helps the patient breathe until the paralysis improves.
  • Wound Care: For wound botulism, surgical debridement (removal of infected tissue) may be necessary. Antibiotics are generally not effective for foodborne botulism but may be used in cases of wound botulism to treat secondary infections.
  • Supportive Care: Hospitalization is often necessary to provide supportive care, including monitoring vital signs, providing nutrition, and preventing complications such as pneumonia or infections.

Recovery from botulism can take weeks or even months, and extended rehabilitation therapy is often required to regain full function.

Legal Recourse

When a manufacturing defect leads to contamination and poses a health risk to consumers, the manufacturer may be held accountable. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with botulism after consuming recalled canned tuna, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit. A lawyer specializing in food poisoning cases can help you understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Stay Informed and Take Action

The recent tuna recall highlights the importance of staying informed about food safety alerts and taking prompt action when recalls are announced. By understanding the risks of botulism, recognizing the symptoms, and following the recommended steps, you can protect yourself and your family from this potentially deadly illness. If you believe you have been affected by contaminated tuna, seek medical attention immediately and consult with a qualified attorney to explore your legal options.