Canned Tuna Recall Reissued after Botulism-risk Products Shipped to Stores in Nine States; How to Get a Refund

A canned tuna recall in the United States has been reissued after previously quarantined products were mistakenly distributed to retail stores, raising renewed food safety concerns. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that select canned tuna items from Tri-Union Seafoods, originally recalled in February 2025, were inadvertently shipped by a third-party distributor to outlets across nine states.

The recall involves specific batches of Genova Yellowfin Tuna products, including variants packed in olive oil and extra virgin olive oil with sea salt. The issue stems from a manufacturing defect that may compromise the integrity of the can seal, increasing the risk of contamination by Clostridium botulinum, which can cause botulism. The FDA has issued a renewed safety alert urging consumers to identify and avoid the affected products.

Botulism is a rare but potentially fatal illness that attacks the body’s nervous system, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and, in severe cases, death if not treated promptly. Health authorities have emphasized that contaminated products may not exhibit visible signs such as unusual odor or appearance, making it critical for consumers to follow recall notices strictly.

The contamination risk arises when bacterial spores, commonly found in the environment, grow and produce toxins under specific conditions such as low oxygen, low acidity, and improper storage or sealing. Improperly canned or preserved foods are particularly vulnerable, highlighting the importance of stringent quality control in food processing and packaging.

According to Precedence Research, the global canned tuna market size accounted for USD 34.58 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from USD 35.76 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 46.34 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 2.97% from 2026 to 2035 as rising global demand for convenient, shelf-stable seafood products continues to drive market growth.

A recent report by Precedence Research highlights that the canned tuna market is benefiting from increasing consumer preference for ready-to-eat protein sources, expanding retail distribution networks, and growing awareness of seafood’s nutritional benefits.