FDA Expands Shrimp Recall Over Potential Radioactive Contamination
The FDA has broadened its recall of frozen shrimp due to potential contamination with Cesium-137, affecting multiple brands and states.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded its recall of frozen shrimp products due to potential contamination with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137 (Cs-137). The recall now includes multiple brands and affects consumers across several states.
Initially, the FDA identified contamination in shipments from Indonesian supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods). U.S. Customs and Border Protection detected Cs-137 in shipping containers at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah. Subsequent FDA testing confirmed the presence of Cs-137 in a sample of frozen breaded shrimp. Although the detected levels were below the FDA's intervention threshold, the agency emphasized that prolonged exposure to low-level radiation could pose health risks over time.
The recall encompasses various products:
Walmart's Great Value Frozen Raw Shrimp: Distributed in 13 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Affected lot codes are 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1, with a best-by date of March 15, 2027. Consumers are advised to discard these products or return them to Walmart for a refund.
Southwind Foods' Shrimp Brands: Including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, First Street, and Great American. These products were distributed between July 17 and August 8 in nine states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. Consumers should check packaging for specific lot codes and dispose of any affected products.
AquaStar USA Corp.'s Kroger-Branded Shrimp: Nearly 18,000 bags of frozen Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp have been recalled. These were sold between July 24 and August 11 in 17 states. Affected stores include Baker's, Gerbes, Jay C, Kroger, Mariano's, Metro Market, Pay Less Supermarkets, and Pick 'n Save. The recalled shrimp are packaged in clear plastic bags with a white label and green stripes on top. Consumers should look for UPC 011110626196 with lot codes 10662 5139 and 10662 5140, and best-before dates of November 19 and 20, 2027, respectively.
The FDA has placed BMS Foods under a full import alert, preventing further shipments from entering the U.S. until the company addresses the contamination issue. Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled shrimp products are urged not to consume them and to follow the disposal or return instructions provided by the respective retailers.
Cesium-137 is a byproduct of nuclear ... and can be found in trace amounts in the environment. While the levels detected in the recalled shrimp are below the FDA's concern threshold, the agency advises caution due to potential health risks associated with prolonged exposure.
The FDA continues to investigate the source of the contamination and is working with Indonesian authorities to ensure the safety of imported seafood products.