Costco Recalls 3,314 Pounds of Ahi Tuna Poke Due to Listeria Risk

Costco has initiated a recall of approximately 3,314 pounds of Kirkland Signature brand Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The affected product was packed on September 18, 2025, and has a sell-by date of September 22, 2025. This recall comes from concerns raised by Western United Fish Company, also known as Annasea Foods Group, located in Kent, Washington.

The recall specifically targets poke packaged in plastic clamshell containers bearing the Kirkland Signature branding. Consumers are advised to dispose of the product immediately and seek a full refund from their local Costco. The contamination risk is associated with the green onions included in the poke, rather than the raw fish itself.

According to a statement from the company posted on the FDA website, the recall was prompted after the green onion supplier reported a positive test result for listeria. “This recall was initiated after being notified by our green onion supplier of a Listeria monocytogenes positive test result in the green onions which were used only in Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke on September 17, 2025,” the statement read. The company is working closely with its supplier to investigate the cause of the contamination.

Consumers in the United States are especially urged to stay vigilant regarding listeria, which poses significant health risks. Listeria can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including young children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. While healthy individuals may experience severe symptoms such as high fever, severe headaches, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, the potential for serious illness remains a concern for all consumers.

Previous Concerns and Regulatory Challenges

This recall follows a troubling trend of food safety issues in the United States. In June, several chicken fettuccine alfredo meals sold at major retailers including Kroger and Walmart were recalled after listeria contamination resulted in the illnesses of 17 people and three fatalities, as reported by NPR. Among the cases, one woman tragically lost her fetus, highlighting the particular risk listeria poses to pregnant women.

Concerns have been raised regarding recent cuts to food safety monitoring programs, particularly during the Trump administration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reportedly scaled back the operations of the Foodborne Diseases Active Surveillance Network (FoodNet), which monitors foodborne illnesses. A report from the New York Times suggests that these reductions could delay the detection of outbreaks, potentially allowing small incidents to escalate into larger public health crises.

In a country with a population exceeding 330 million, even a small number of cases can go unnoticed until they lead to severe consequences. Without adequate data to identify outbreaks, the risks associated with foodborne illnesses can increase significantly.

Consumers who have questions regarding the Costco poke recall are encouraged to contact Western United Fish Company/Annasea Foods Group at 425-558-7809 during business hours from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. ET (7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PT) or via email at [email protected].