What Louisiana Shoppers Need to Know About Potentially Deadly Canned Tuna Recall

Several brands of canned tuna sold at major retailers across the U.S. are being recalled due to the risk of botulism contamination, a rare but potentially fatal illness, according to the Associated Press. While Louisiana shoppers don’t have access to H-E-B stores, affected products were sold at stores including Trader Joe’s, Costco, Walmart, Kroger, and independent grocers, which are common in the state.

Tri-Union Seafoods, based in El Segundo, California, has issued the recall for specific lots of canned tuna under the Genova, Van Camp’s, Trader Joe’s, and H-E-B brand names. The recall stems from concerns over manufacturing defects in the lids of “easy open” cans that may cause leaks or contamination by the bacteria that produce botulism.

The recalled products have retail codes listed in the recall notice and best-by dates in 2027 and 2028. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises consumers not to consume the affected products, even if they appear or smell normal. You can return them to the store for a full refund, dispose of them, or contact Tri-Union Seafoods for further guidance.

Symptoms of botulism include difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, and paralysis, which can be life-threatening. No illnesses linked to this recall have been reported so far.

Louisiana residents should check their pantries for affected products purchased at national chains and follow the recall instructions to stay safe. For a full list of recalled items, visit the FDA's website.