More Bags of Frozen Shrimp Recalled for Potential Radioactive Contamination — Here Are the Multiple States Affected

Frozen Shrimp Recalled in 9 States Due to Radioactive Contamination

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a recall for bagged, frozen shrimp on August 21st, citing potential radioactive contamination. Thirteen products from Southwind Foods, sold under various brand names, were flagged for possible contamination with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137. These bags of frozen shrimp were distributed in nine states across the United States.

This latest recall comes shortly after the FDA announced a recall for specific lots of frozen raw shrimp sold at Walmart. Southwind Foods of California initiated the recall for 13 shrimp products under brand names such as Sand Bar, Best Yet, Great American, Arctic Shores, and First Street. The potential contamination spanned products distributed between July 17 and August 8, as reported by the FDA. The company provided images of the product packaging as part of the alert.

The affected bags of frozen shrimp made their way to retailers, distributors, and wholesalers in Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington. The recalled products encompass various types of raw and cooked shrimp items, including salads, sold under the mentioned brand names and in multiple bag sizes.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Cesium-137 is described as a soft, silvery-white metal that can turn liquid near room temperature. The FDA indicated that Cs-137 can be found in the environment at background levels and may be present at higher concentrations in water or foods produced in contaminated areas. Prolonged low-dose exposure to Cs-137 can elevate the risk of cancer due to DNA damage in living cells.

Notably, the FDA has been investigating reports of Cs-137 contamination in shipping containers and shrimp products supplied by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) in Indonesia but has not received any reports of illnesses stemming from the contamination. Walmart’s initial recall of frozen raw shrimp also highlighted concerns about Cs-137 levels, prompting the company to advise consumers to discard the affected products.

The recalled Walmart product, under the Great Value brand, had a best by date of March 15, 2027, and specific lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1, or 8005539-1. The radioactive isotope Cs-137, with a half-life of about 30 years, was found in trace amounts in the shrimp, leading to the recall. BMS Foods has been placed on an import alert due to violations, preventing further product distribution in the U.S.

Consumers who purchased the recalled frozen raw shrimp are urged to dispose of the products and refrain from consuming them. It is essential to stay informed about food recalls to ensure food safety for yourself and your family. Keep an eye on official FDA announcements and follow disposal instructions to safeguard against potential health risks.

In light of these recalls, it is critical for food manufacturers to uphold strict quality control measures to prevent contamination and ensure consumer safety. Adherence to food safety regulations and thorough testing protocols are vital in maintaining public trust and preventing adverse health consequences. Stay vigilant and informed to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential food-related hazards.