Federal officials have broadened the recall of frozen shrimp products due to potential contamination with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137, significantly expanding the scope of impacted brands, states, and associated health guidance.

Affected Brands and Distribution Scope

  • Southwind Foods, based in California, is recalling shrimp sold under several brands—including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, and First Street—distributed from July 17 to August 8 across nine states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington.

  • Walmart’s Great Value brand shrimp has also been recalled in 13 states, involving specific lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1, designated with a best-by date of March 15, 2027.

FDA Findings and Contamination Risk

  • The FDA issued a safety alert after Customs inspectors detected Cesium‑137 in shipping containers at four U.S. ports and confirmed it in a breaded shrimp sample imported from Indonesia’s BMS Foods (PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati).

  • The measured Cesium‑137 level in that sample was approximately 68 Bq/kg, well below the FDA’s intervention threshold of 1,200 Bq/kg—but still significant enough for concern due to long-term exposure risk.

Health Risks & Safety Advice

  • Cesium‑137 is a man-made radioactive isotope produced during nuclear reactions. While trace levels occur naturally from past atmospheric testing and accidents, sustained consumption even of low amounts may damage DNA and raise cancer risk.

  • Experts clarify that there is no acute health hazard, but the main concern is chronic exposure, especially for vulnerable populations.

  • The FDA strongly advises consumers to not eat, sell, or serve affected shrimp products, dispose of them safely, or return them for a full refund, and always wash hands after contact.

Broader Impact & Industry Response

  • In response to the recall, Groomer’s Seafood Market in San Antonio took a humorous but serious approach on social media, emphasizing that local shrimp are safe and rigorously tested—underscoring the importance of retailer transparency and quality standards MySA.

  • The FDA has placed PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati under a new import alert (IA 99‑51), blocking further shipments until safety and sanitary conditions are verified.

What Consumers Should Do

  1. Check your freezer for recalled brands and lot codes. Do not consume any affected shrimp.

  2. Dispose safely or return the product to the store for a full refund.

  3. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling.

  4. Observe any symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if exposure is suspected.

SOURCE: AP News