The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is alerting consumers in nine states after a shipment of tuna cans that had been placed in quarantine was mistakenly distributed on January 20.
The tuna cans were recalled in February 2025 and quarantined by Tri-Union Seafoods. The cans, labeled “Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil,” had been recalled because they might not have been securely closed, posing a potential risk of botulism. Almost one year later, for reasons still unknown, the shipment ended up distributed in shops in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, Maryland, Virginia, and California. The FDA is advising that the tuna not be eaten. In cases where this happens, individuals should seek medical attention if not feeling well.
Botulism is caused by Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that produces a toxin that affects the body’s nervous system and which can be fatal. Botulism not only affects food storage; it is also often associated with the misuse of Botox injections for both cosmetic and medical purposes, and it can even develop in babies.
In this gallery, you’ll learn all about botulism, including its symptoms, treatment, and whether it can be prevented. Click on for more.