FDA Orders Canned Tuna Recall Over Possible Botulism Risk

Canned Tuna Recall

Potential Botulism Risk

Nine States Affected

According to Infobae, U.S. health authorities ordered a preventive recall of Genova brand canned tuna distributed across nine states due to a potential risk of botulism.

The measure was announced on January 21, 2026, by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the company Tri-Union Seafoods.

The recall affects consumers in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia, and California.

According to the FDA, the issue originated from defects in the sealing of some cans, which could allow the growth of dangerous bacteria.

Authorities warned that the product should not be consumed under any circumstances, even if it shows no visible signs of spoilage.

Which Tuna Products Were Recalled and Where They Were Sold

“USA: Canned tuna recalled in nine states due to a possible botulism risk.”
https://t.co/CKaqsarbZ1

— Infobae América (@infobaeamerica) January 21, 2026

The canned tuna recall includes several batches of Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil and Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt.

The products have best-by dates in January 2028.

According to official information, the affected items include four-pack packages of 142-gram cans of tuna in olive oil, as well as individual 142-gram cans in extra virgin olive oil with sea salt.

The FDA specified that the affected cans carry specific lot codes and UPC numbers printed on the packaging.

NBC News reported that the products were inadvertently distributed to supermarket chains including Meijer, Giant Foods, Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions.

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Meijer received the products in stores across Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Giant Foods sold the products in Maryland and Virginia.

Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions distributed the canned tuna products affected by the recall in California.

Authorities advised consumers to carefully check lot codes before consuming any Genova product.

What Is the Health Risk?

FDA Orders Canned Tuna Recall Over Possible Botulism Risk – PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

The recall was triggered by a defect found in the easy-open lids of the cans.

According to the FDA, this type of failure can allow air to enter the container.

This condition creates an environment that may support the growth of Clostridium botulinum, the bacterium that causes botulism.

Botulism is a serious and potentially fatal foodborne illness.

It can cause severe neurological symptoms such as double vision, difficulty speaking or swallowing, muscle weakness, and respiratory paralysis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that foodborne botulism requires immediate medical attention.

The FDA emphasized that consumers should not use the product even if it does not show bad odor, swelling, or other visible abnormalities.

Consumers were also urged to seek medical care immediately if symptoms appear after consuming the recalled tuna products.

What Consumers Should Do and Background of the Canned Tuna Recall

The FDA and Tri-Union Seafoods instructed consumers not to eat the affected cans.

Recommended options include safely discarding the product or returning it to the store of purchase for a refund.

To address questions, the company has provided an email address and a consumer hotline.

The immediate background to this recall dates back to February 2025.

At that time, Tri-Union Seafoods detected defects in the easy-open lids of certain batches and placed them in quarantine.

According to the FDA, an error by a third party caused some of those quarantined products to be shipped to retail stores.

The agency said it is investigating how the improper distribution occurred.

NBC News noted that recalls due to botulism risk are uncommon but can have serious consequences.

In 2023, the CDC recorded 242 botulism cases in the United States, some of which were linked to industrially processed foods.

The FDA clarified that other Genova and Tri-Union Seafoods products are not involved in this recall.

Authorities continue to monitor the distribution chain and urged consumers to follow official updates.

Their stated goal is to ensure food safety and prevent risks to public health.