FDA expands shrimp recall amid cesium-137 contamination concerns

FDA expands its recall of frozen shrimp after traces of radioactive cesium-137 were detected, affecting products from Aquastar and Kroger across multiple U.S. retailers. Consumers are urged to check and dispose of or return affected packages. Credit: Shutterstock

Following up on last month’s coverage of radioactive shrimp imports, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has broadened its recall of frozen shrimp products linked to cesium-137 (Cs-137), a man-made radioactive isotope. While no illnesses have been reported, the move underscores ongoing challenges in ensuring seafood safety across complex global supply chains.

Seattle-based Aquastar Corp is recalling over 26,000 packages of its frozen cocktail shrimp and roughly 18,000 bags of Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp. These products were distributed across multiple major U.S. retailers, including Walmart and Kroger-affiliated stores such as Baker’s, Mariano’s, Metro Market, Pay Less, and Pick ’n Save.

The FDA identified the potential contamination after U.S. Customs and Border Protection detected Cs-137 in shipping containers from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods), an Indonesian processor. Although no contaminated shrimp is believed to have entered U.S. commerce, recalls were initiated to remove products that could not be verified as free from the radioactive isotope. The agency emphasised that the recalled products may have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions, constituting a violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

Recall details

Aquastar frozen cocktail shrimp

• Sold in clear plastic trays with red-and-white labels at Walmart stores in 27 states (late July to mid-August).
• UPC: 19434612191
• Lot codes: 10662 5106, 10662 5107, 10662 5124, 10662 5125

Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp

• Sold in clear plastic bags with white-and-green labels at Kroger and affiliated stores across 17 states (24 July – 11 August).
• UPC: 011110626196
• Lot codes: 10662 5139 (“Best Before” 19 Nov 2027), 10662 5140 (“Best Before” 20 Nov 2027)

Consumers are advised to return affected products to the point of purchase or dispose of them. Cs-137, while rarely present in food, can accumulate in the body over time; prolonged exposure is linked to increased cancer risk.

Industry and supply chain implications

This recall highlights the complexity of modern seafood supply chains, where products are frequently farmed or processed overseas before distribution in the U.S. Multiple handling points make traceability essential, and swift detection by Customs and FDA underscores the importance of regulatory oversight.

For retailers and distributors, the incident reinforces the need for robust supplier verification and testing protocols. For consumers, it is a reminder to monitor recall alerts and adhere to disposal or return instructions for potentially unsafe products.

The FDA continues to investigate and coordinate with importers and retailers to prevent further exposure. As this follows closely on a previous shrimp recall involving Cs-137, industry stakeholders are watching closely for potential regulatory updates and safety recommendations.