Full Breakdown
Expanded Recall of Frozen Shrimp Due to Radioactive Contamination Concerns
9/24/2025, 8:48:35 PM
Overview of the Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced an expanded recall of frozen shrimp products sold under the Kroger and AquaStar brands due to potential contamination with cesium-137 (Cs-137), a man-made radioactive isotope. This recall affects over 85,000 bags of shrimp distributed across 31 states, including California, Texas, and Florida, between June 12 and September 17, 2025.
Details of the Affected Products
The recalled products include:
- Approximately 49,920 bags of Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp (2 lbs.)
- About 18,000 bags of Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp (2 lbs.)
- More than 17,000 bags of AquaStar Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers (1.25 lbs.)
These products were sold at various grocery chains, including Kroger, Ralphs, and Fred Meyer, among others. Consumers are advised to check for specific lot codes and "Best If Used By" dates to identify affected products.
Source of Contamination
The contamination is linked to shrimp processed by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, an Indonesian company operating under the name BMS Foods. The FDA's investigation began after U.S. Customs and Border Protection detected Cs-137 in shipping containers at major ports, including Los Angeles and Miami. Although no contaminated shrimp has entered the U.S. market, the FDA is conducting recalls as a precautionary measure due to concerns that the shrimp may have been prepared or stored under insanitary conditions.
Health Risks Associated with Cs-137
Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that can pose health risks, particularly with long-term exposure. The FDA warns that repeated low-dose exposure through contaminated food or water can increase the risk of cancer due to potential DNA damage within living cells. While the levels of Cs-137 detected in the shrimp were significantly below the FDA's threshold for immediate health concerns, the agency emphasizes the importance of consumer safety.
Official Statements and Responses
The FDA has stated, “At this time, no product that has tested positive or alerted for Cs-137 has entered the U.S. marketplace.” They are working closely with distributors and retailers to ensure that potentially contaminated products are removed from shelves. AquaStar has also issued a statement urging consumers to dispose of or return the recalled shrimp for a full refund.
Criticism and Opposition
Some experts have raised concerns about the frequency of such recalls, questioning whether the food safety inspection processes are adequate. They argue that the repeated incidents of contamination highlight potential systemic issues within food safety regulations.
What Consumers Should Do
Consumers who have purchased the recalled shrimp are advised not to consume the products. Instead, they should either throw them away or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. The FDA has provided a hotline for consumers to report any concerns or seek further information.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation into cesium-137 contamination in shrimp highlights the importance of vigilance in food safety. As the FDA continues to monitor the situation, consumers are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions regarding their food purchases.
