A manufacturing defect has led to the recall of several brands’ tuna cans sold at Trader Joe’s, H-E-B, Costco, and Walmart. According to reports, the manufacturing defect can lead to severe food poisoning and compromise the integrity of the product seal.

Why are Tuna cans getting recalled from Costco and Walmart?

Tri-Union Seafoods, a well-known subsidiary of the food company Thai Union Group, is calling for a voluntary recall of several brands of tuna cans. According to the company’s press release, the recall is necessary “out of an abundance of caution.”

The press release revealed that a supplier noticed a major manufacturing defect in the tuna cans’ “easy open” lids. This defect plays a major role in food safety and causes further damage. The press release mentioned the flaw in the lids “compromises the integrity of the product seal.” Over time, the faulty lids can lead to leakage or even risk contamination with Clostridium botulinum.

For the unversed, Clostridium botulinum is a type of bacteria found in contaminated foods. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), botulinum toxins are neurotoxic and affect the nervous system. The official website says, “Foodborne botulism can cause respiratory failure. Early symptoms include marked fatigue, weakness, and vertigo, usually followed by blurred vision, dry mouth, and difficulty in swallowing and speaking. Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal swelling may also occur.”

Tri-Union Seafoods has urged customers not to consume the products even if they “do not look or smell spoiled.” The company has also advised the consumers to access medical assistance in case they are feeling unwell.

While the voluntary recall is a necessary step in maintaining the safety and integrity of certain food items, reports note that no cases of illnesses associated with the products have emerged so far.

Tri-Union’s press release also mentioned all the retail stores and cans’ codes for the consumers’ awareness. As per the official note, recalled tuna cans with the H-E-B label were only available in Texas. Trader Joe’s labels’ products were distributed in multiple locations including Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin.

Van Camp’s label’s recalled tuna cans were available in Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey. Additionally, Costco in Florida and Georgia carried Genova 7 oz recalled tuna cans.