Recalled tuna mistakenly shipped to stores in 9 states amid 'potentially fatal' botulism risk

Some cans of yellowfin tuna that were recalled last year over botulism concerns were mistakenly shipped to stores in multiple states, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said.

"The initial voluntary recall was conducted following notification from our supplier that the 'easy open' pull tab can lid on limited products had a manufacturing defect that may compromise the integrity of the product seal (especially over time), causing it to leak, or worse, be contaminated with clostridium botulinum, a potentially fatal form of food poisoning," El Segundo-based Tri-Union Seafoods said in a statement issued Friday.

A third-party distributor inadvertently shipped quarantined cases of Genova Yellowfin Tuna in olive oil and extra virgin olive oil to nine states, according to Tri-Union Seafoods.

The product went to Safeway, Albertsons, Vons, and Pavilions in California, Meijer stores in multiple states, and Giant Foods in Maryland and Virginia.

Consumers should not use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled, the company said, adding that consumers feeling unwell should seek immediate medical attention.

Anyone who has a recalled tuna can is urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund, throw it away, or contact Tri-Union Seafoods directly for a retrieval kit and a coupon for a replacement product.

Consumers can contact Tri-Union Seafoods at support@thaiunionhelp.zendesk.com or (833) 374-0171, if they have any questions or to request replacement product. The toll-free number hours are Monday through Friday from 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. PST.

For more details on the recall, visit www.fda.gov.