Genova Yellowfin Tuna Recall 2024: FDA Warns of Clostridium Botulinum Risk
Urgent consumer alert: Tri-Union Seafoods has broadened its recall of select Genova® Yellowfin Tuna cans after quarantined inventory was accidentally shipped to stores. The affected cans could harbor Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that produces the potentially deadly botulinum toxin. Do not consume this tuna. Check the UPC, can code, and “Best if Used By” date below, then follow the refund or disposal instructions.
Key Recall Details
- Recalled items: Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 5 oz 4-Pack; Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt 5 oz (single cans)
- Reason for recall: Defective “easy-open” lids may fail, allowing C. botulinum growth
- States where product was sold: CA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, OH, VA, WI
- Retailers involved: Meijer; Giant Foods; Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions
- Consumer action: Do not eat the tuna. Return it for a refund, dispose of it safely, or request a free retrieval kit at 833-374-0171.
Sources
Recalled Genova Tuna UPCs, Can Codes & Dates
| Product Description | UPC | Can Code | Best if Used By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 5 oz 4-Pack | 4800073265 | S84N D2L | 01/21/2028 |
| Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil 5 oz 4-Pack | 4800073265 | S84N D3L | 01/24/2028 |
| Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil w/ Sea Salt 5 oz | 4800013275 | S88N D1M | 01/17/2028 |
Refund & Replacement Options
Customers can choose one of the following:
- Return for refund: Bring unopened or partially used cans to the store where purchased.
- Safe disposal: If you cannot return the product, discard it so it cannot be eaten by people or pets.
- Retrieval kit & coupon: Email support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or call 833-374-0171 (Mon–Fri, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. EST) to receive packaging for return shipping and a coupon for replacement tuna.
Health Risk: Understanding Botulism
Clostridium botulinum produces a neurotoxin that can cause botulism, a rare but serious illness. Symptoms may begin 6 hours to 10 days after eating contaminated food and can include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal cramps
If you develop any of these symptoms after eating Genova Yellowfin Tuna, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Official Images from the Recall
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Genova Yellowfin Tuna products are included in the 2024 recall?
The recall affects 5 oz Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil (sold as a 4-Pack) and 5 oz Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Extra Virgin Olive Oil with Sea Salt. Only cans with the UPCs and codes listed above are involved.
2. Why is Genova Yellowfin Tuna being recalled by Tri-Union Seafoods?
Testing revealed that some “easy-open” lids may not seal properly, creating conditions where Clostridium botulinum could grow and produce toxin.
3. What symptoms indicate botulism from Genova Yellowfin Tuna?
Watch for blurred vision, slurred speech, muscle weakness, and trouble breathing. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
4. How do I get a refund or replacement for recalled Genova Yellowfin Tuna?
Return the cans to the retailer for a full refund, or request a prepaid retrieval kit and coupon by calling 833-374-0171 or emailing customer support.
5. Where was the recalled Genova Yellowfin Tuna sold?
Limited shipments reached Meijer, Giant Foods, and Safeway/Albertsons-owned stores (Safeway, Vons, Pavilions) in nine states: CA, IL, IN, KY, MD, MI, OH, VA, and WI.
6. Can I safely eat Genova Yellowfin Tuna cans with different codes?
Yes. Only the specific UPCs and can codes listed in the recall table are affected. Other Genova products remain safe to consume.
7. What should restaurants do if they have the recalled Genova Yellowfin Tuna?
Food-service operators should immediately stop using the product, follow the same return or disposal instructions, and notify staff of the recall.