Genova Yellowfin Tuna Recall, What Botulism Risk Was Found and Your Legal Options in 2026

Tri-Union Seafoods has issued an urgent recall for Genova Yellowfin Tuna due to a critical botulism contamination risk as of January 2026. This recall affects products sold in nine states—including California, Illinois, and Virginia—after quarantined cans were inadvertently shipped to retailers. If you purchased Genova tuna, you may be eligible for a refund, or if you consumed the product, you may have grounds for a legal claim.

The Genova Tuna Botulism Risk: What Was Identified?

The core danger involves a manufacturing defect in the “easy-open” pull-tab lids of specific Genova Yellowfin Tuna cans. According to an FDA enforcement report updated in January 2026, the defect can compromise the airtight seal over time.

When a seal fails in canned goods, it creates an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment where Clostridium botulinum can thrive. This bacterium produces one of the most potent neurotoxins known to science, leading to botulism, a life-threatening form of food poisoning. Tri-Union Seafoods discovered that a third-party distributor accidentally released quarantined stock from a February 2025 recall, leading to new exposures in early 2026.

Which Genova Yellowfin Tuna Products are Affected?

As of January 2026, the recall is limited to two specific Genova brand products distributed to Meijer, Giant Foods, Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions. You must check the bottom of your cans for the following UPC and Lot Codes:

These products were primarily sold in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia, and California.

Health Risks: The Dangers of Botulism Contamination

Botulism is a medical emergency. The toxins produced by the bacteria attack the body’s nerves, which can lead to paralysis of the respiratory muscles. Symptoms typically appear 18 to 36 hours after ingestion but can surface as late as 10 days post-exposure.

Symptoms to Watch For:

• Double or blurred vision and drooping eyelids.
• Slurred speech and difficulty swallowing.
• Progressive muscle weakness that starts in the upper body and moves down.
• Difficulty breathing (this requires immediate emergency intervention).

Lawsuit Status: Are You Eligible for Compensation?

As of late January 2026, attorneys are actively investigating potential class action lawsuits against Tri-Union Seafoods and the third-party distributors responsible for the accidental release of quarantined products. While no official settlement has been reached, consumers may be able to seek compensation for:

• Medical Expenses: If you required hospitalization or antitoxin treatment.
• Consumer Fraud: If you purchased a product that was known to be defective and previously quarantined.
• Pain and Suffering: For long-term neurological impacts or severe illness.

If you have consumed the affected tuna and experienced symptoms, it is vital to document your purchase and medical records to support a future product liability claim like bayer-antifungal-spray.

What You Must Know

How to Identify Affected Cans in Your Pantry

The most important thing to remember is that botulism-contaminated food does not look, smell, or taste spoiled. You cannot rely on a “sniff test.” You must check the printed codes on the bottom of the can against the recall list. If you see any signs of bulging, leaking, or denting in an “easy-open” Genova can, treat it as hazardous material and do not open it.

2026 Update: Why This Recall is Recurring

Many readers may remember a similar alert in early 2025. The 2026 update is critical because it confirms that quarantine protocols failed. This means products you might have assumed were safe because they were purchased recently could actually be “ghost stock” from the defective 2025 batches.

What to Do Next

Step 1: Stop Use and Secure the Product

Do not eat, serve, or even open the affected tuna. If you have the product, place it in a sealed plastic bag. This prevents accidental consumption by others or pets if you choose to dispose of it.

Step 2: Request Your Refund or Replacement

Tri-Union Seafoods is providing full refunds at the point of purchase.

• At the Store: Take the can (or a photo of the lot code) to the customer service desk at Meijer, Giant, or Safeway.
• Via the Manufacturer: Contact Tri-Union at 833-374-0171 or email [email protected] to request a retrieval kit and a replacement coupon.

Step 3: Document and Report Illness

If you feel unwell, seek medical attention immediately and inform the provider of potential botulism exposure. Report your illness to your local health department and the FDA’s MedWatch program. Documentation is the most critical step if you intend to join a class action settlement or file an individual lawsuit later this year.

FAQs

What is the current status of the Genova tuna recall in 2026?

The recall is active and classified as a high-risk event by the FDA. It involves specific 5oz cans and 4-packs sold in nine U.S. states that were accidentally shipped after a previous quarantine.

Has a class action lawsuit been filed?

As of January 2026, several law firms have opened investigations into the “inadvertent distribution” of the tuna. While no formal settlement exists yet, legal filings are anticipated due to the nature of the distribution error.

Can I get a refund without a receipt?

Yes, most affected retailers like Meijer and Safeway are honoring refunds based on the Lot Codes (S84N D2L, S84N D3L, or S88N D1M) found on the cans themselves.

What states are involved in the Tri-Union recall?

The recall primarily affects CA, IL, IN, KY, MI, OH, WI, MD, and VA.

What should I do if I already ate the tuna?

Monitor yourself for neurological symptoms like blurred vision or muscle weakness for up to 10 days. If symptoms appear, go to an emergency room immediately and mention the Clostridium botulinum recall.

Last Updated: January 30, 2026

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about a product recall and legal developments. It does not constitute legal or medical advice. For specific legal guidance, please consult with a qualified attorney.

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About the Author

Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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