Genova Yellowfin Tuna Recall: Retailers in Nine States Mistakenly Sold Tainted Tuna

Genova Yellowfin Tuna Recall: Retailers in Nine States Mistakenly Sold Tainted Tuna

In a concerning turn of events, a recent recall of Genova Yellowfin Tuna has expanded, affecting consumers in nine states. What makes this situation particularly alarming is that the recalled tuna, initially pulled from shelves in February 2025 due to potential botulism contamination, was mistakenly shipped by a third-party distributor back to retailers. This error has led to renewed warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and heightened concerns among consumers about food safety.

The Botulism Risk: A Serious Threat

The heart of the recall lies in the risk of Clostridium botulinum contamination. This bacterium produces a potent neurotoxin that can cause botulism, a rare but potentially fatal form of food poisoning. According to the FDA, the initial recall was triggered by a manufacturing defect in the “easy open” pull-tab lids of the tuna cans. This defect could compromise the integrity of the seal, allowing the bacteria to grow and contaminate the product.

Symptoms of botulism can manifest within 12 to 36 hours after consuming contaminated food and may include:

  • Blurred or double vision
  • Drooping eyelids
  • Difficulty swallowing or speaking
  • Muscle weakness
  • Respiratory problems
  • Nausea and vomiting

If left untreated, botulism can lead to paralysis and even death. Given the severity of this potential health risk, consumers must take the recall seriously and inspect their pantries for the affected products.

Which Products Are Recalled?

The recall specifically involves Genova Yellowfin Tuna products with the following details:

  • Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil: 5-ounce cans in a 4-pack

    • UPC: 4800073265
    • Can Codes: S84N D2L and S84N D3L
    • Best if Used By Dates: January 21, 2028, and January 24, 2028

    • Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt: 5-ounce cans

    • UPC: 4800013275

    • Can Code: S88N D1M
    • Best if Used By Date: January 17, 2028

These products were sold at major retailers across nine states:

  • Meijer: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin
  • Giant Foods: Maryland and Virginia
  • Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions: California

Consumers in these states should check their homes for these products.

What Should You Do If You Have Recalled Tuna?

The FDA and Tri-Union Seafoods urge consumers to take the following steps if they have purchased any of the recalled tuna:

  1. Do not consume the product: Even if the tuna looks and smells normal, it could still be contaminated.
  2. Return the product: Take the recalled tuna to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
  3. Dispose of the product: If returning the product is not possible, discard it in a sealed container to prevent consumption by humans or animals.
  4. Contact Tri-Union Seafoods: For further assistance, retrieval kits, or replacement coupons, contact Tri-Union Seafoods at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or call 833-374-0171, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.
  5. Seek medical attention: If you experience symptoms of botulism after consuming the recalled tuna, seek immediate medical attention.

Legal Recourse for Victims of Food Poisoning

Food poisoning incidents, such as those potentially caused by the recalled Genova Yellowfin Tuna, can have severe health consequences. Victims may incur significant medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In such cases, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and options.

Liability: Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers have a legal duty to ensure the safety of their products. If their negligence leads to contamination and subsequent illness, they can be held liable for damages.

Legal Claims: Victims of food poisoning may be able to pursue legal claims for:

  • Medical expenses: Compensation for all medical treatment costs, including hospitalization, medication, and therapy.
  • Lost wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to illness and recovery time.
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
  • Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible parties and deter similar conduct in the future.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help: Navigating the legal complexities of a food poisoning case can be challenging. A personal injury lawyer specializing in foodborne illness can provide invaluable assistance by:

  • Investigating the incident: Gathering evidence to determine the source of contamination and identify liable parties.
  • Building a strong case: Working with medical experts to establish the link between the contaminated food and the victim’s illness.
  • Negotiating with insurance companies: Dealing with insurance adjusters to reach a fair settlement.
  • Representing you in court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, an experienced attorney can advocate for your rights in court.

Have you been a victim?

The Genova Yellowfin Tuna recall serves as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety and the potential consequences of negligence in the food supply chain. Consumers must remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families from foodborne illnesses. If you or a loved one has been affected by the recalled tuna, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.