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Bumble Bee expands recall of albacore, tuna

SAN DIEGO — Bumble Bee Foods, LLC, is expanding a voluntary recall on specific codes of 5-ounce Chunk White Albacore and Chunk Light Tuna products. The recall has been issued because the products do not meet the company’s standards for seal tightness.

Loose seals or seams could result in product contamination by spoilage organisms or pathogens and lead to illnesses if consumed. There have been no reports to date of any illness associated with these products.

Bumble Bee initially announced the voluntary recall on Wednesday, March 6 after identifying an issue on a manufacturing line, which has been corrected. These products were distributed for retail sale nationwide between January 17, 2013 and March 6, 2013.

Bumble Bee Foods SVP of Technical Services and Corporate Quality Assurance Steve Mavity said: "Due to can integrity concerns, our top priority at this time is to remove these recalled products from distribution as soon as possible. We are working closely with our sales team and with retailers to help expedite the recall. For the list of the company's final assessment of all products affected by this voluntary recall including "best by" and code dates, click here: Bumble Bee Foods Voluntary Recall List of Products

"We must assure our consumers and retailers of a safe and quality product so we very much appreciate everyone's part in disposing of the products with the specific codes indicated. We're voluntarily recalling products to ensure the highest margin of safety and quality," Mavity said.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled products should discard them by disposing in the garbage. Consumers should also direct any questions on the recall or reimbursement by contacting the 24-hour dedicated recall line at (888) 820-1947.