Tuna Recall Alert: FDA Issues Highest Risk Warning for Listeria Contamination

Tuna Recall Alert: FDA Issues Highest Risk Warning for Listeria Contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a Class I recall, the most serious type, for specific tuna products due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. Listeria is a dangerous bacterium that can cause severe illness, especially in vulnerable populations. This recall highlights the critical importance of food safety and the potential legal ramifications for companies that fail to protect consumers.

What is Listeria and Why is it Dangerous?

Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium that can cause an infection called listeriosis. While anyone can get listeriosis, it is most dangerous for:

  • Pregnant women: Listeria can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infections in newborns.
  • Adults aged 65 and older.
  • People with weakened immune systems.
  • Young children.

According to the FDA, Listeria is the third leading cause of death from foodborne illness in the United States, resulting in approximately 260 fatalities each year.

Symptoms of listeriosis can include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Stiff neck
  • Confusion
  • Loss of balance
  • Convulsions
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Diarrhea

Recent Tuna Recalls: A Timeline of Events

In July 2025, Reser’s Fine Foods initiated a voluntary recall of multiple tuna salad products sold across seven U.S. states due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The FDA issued announcements following this initial recall after breadcrumbs used as an ingredient in the company’s tuna salad were found to be potentially contaminated with Listeria.

The recalled products were sold at Albertsons, Randalls, Tom Thumb, and Jewel Osco stores in Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa. The “Sell Thru Dates” on the recalled tuna salad products ranged between July 16, 2025, and July 19, 2025.

A more recent recall in November 2025 involved Kirkland Signature Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke sold at Costco, where Listeria was found in green onions used in the product, affecting 33 states.

Identifying Recalled Products

It is crucial to identify whether you have purchased any of the recalled tuna products. Check your refrigerator for the following:

  • Tuna salad sold by-weight in the deli case
  • Ready-to-eat containers of tuna salad
  • Tuna salad sandwiches
  • Snacking trays containing tuna salad
  • Platters of tuna salad sandwiches

For a comprehensive list of UPCs and product labels, consult the FDA website.

What to Do If You Have Recalled Tuna

If you have purchased any of the recalled tuna products, take the following steps:

  1. Do not consume the product.
  2. Dispose of the product immediately or return it to the store where you purchased it for a full refund.
  3. Clean and sanitize any surfaces or containers that may have come into contact with the tuna salad to prevent cross-contamination. Listeria monocytogenes can survive in refrigerated temperatures and easily spread to other foods and surfaces.

Potential Legal Recourse for Victims of Listeria Contamination

If you or a loved one has been affected by Listeria contamination from recalled tuna products, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Potential damages you can recover include:

  • Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical treatment, including hospitalization, medication, and therapy.
  • Lost Wages: Reimbursement for lost income due to being unable to work because of your illness.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
  • Other Damages: Additional compensation for other losses resulting from the illness, such as travel expenses for medical treatment.

Who is Liable?

In a food poisoning lawsuit, multiple parties may be held liable, including:

  • Manufacturers: Companies responsible for producing the contaminated tuna products.
  • Suppliers: Entities that supplied the contaminated ingredients, such as the breadcrumbs in the Reser’s Fine Foods recall.
  • Distributors: Companies involved in transporting and distributing the contaminated products.
  • Retailers: Stores that sold the contaminated tuna products to consumers.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Navigating a food poisoning case can be complex. An experienced personal injury lawyer can assist you by:

  • Investigating the Incident: Gathering evidence to determine the source of the contamination and identify all liable parties.
  • Building a Strong Case: Working with food safety experts and medical professionals to establish the link between your illness and the contaminated tuna products.
  • Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance adjusters to reach a fair settlement.
  • Representing You in Court: Filing a lawsuit and advocating for your rights in court if a settlement cannot be reached.

Preventing Listeria Contamination in the Future

Preventing Listeria contamination requires a multi-faceted approach involving manufacturers, retailers, and consumers.

For Manufacturers and Retailers:

  • Stringent Manufacturing Practices: Implementing rigorous cleaning and sanitation protocols in food processing facilities.
  • Regular Testing: Conducting regular testing of food products and processing environments for Listeria.
  • Supplier Oversight: Ensuring that suppliers adhere to strict food safety standards.
  • Proper Storage and Handling: Maintaining proper storage temperatures and handling procedures to prevent Listeria growth.

For Consumers:

  • Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date on food recalls and safety alerts issued by the FDA and other regulatory agencies.
  • Practice Safe Food Handling: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling food, and clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces regularly.
  • Cook Food Thoroughly: Cook food to the recommended internal temperature to kill Listeria and other harmful bacteria.
  • Avoid Cross-Contamination: Keep raw and cooked foods separate to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Refrigerate Food Promptly: Refrigerate perishable foods within two hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Have you been affected?

The recent tuna recalls due to Listeria contamination serve as a stark reminder of the importance of food safety. If you believe you have suffered harm due to contaminated food, consult with a personal injury attorney to explore your legal options.