Full Breakdown
FDA Issues Recall of Frozen Shrimp Due to Cesium-137 Contamination
12/25/2025, 8:38:41 PM
Overview of the Recall
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a recall of approximately 83,800 bags of frozen raw shrimp imported from Indonesia, due to potential contamination with cesium-137 (Cs-137). The shrimp, distributed by Direct Source Seafood LLC, were sold under the Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro brands at various grocery chains, including Price Chopper, Jewel-Osco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Lucky Supermarket. The recall was issued on December 19, 2025, affecting products sold after late June and early July 2025.
Health Risks Associated with Cesium-137
Cesium-137 is a man-made radioactive isotope commonly associated with nuclear fission and is used in medical devices. The FDA has indicated that while traces of Cs-137 can be found in the environment, the primary health concern arises from long-term exposure, which may increase the risk of cancer due to DNA damage within living cells. The FDA has confirmed that no illnesses related to this contamination have been reported to date.
Details of the Affected Products
The recalled products include:
- Market 32 Frozen Raw Shrimp: UPC 0 41735 01358 3, with best by dates ranging from April 22, 2027, to April 27, 2027.
- Waterfront Bistro Frozen Raw Shrimp: UPC 021130 13224-9, with best by dates of April 25, 2027, and April 26, 2027.
The shrimp were sold in multiple states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming.
Official Statements & Responses
The FDA has stated, “At this time, no product that has tested positive or alerted for Cesium-137 (Cs-137) has entered the U.S. marketplace.” Consumers who purchased the affected shrimp are advised not to consume them and to either dispose of the products or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Criticism & Opposition
While no illnesses have been reported, the recall raises concerns about food safety practices. Critics may question the adequacy of inspection protocols that allowed potentially contaminated products to reach consumers. The FDA is currently investigating the conditions under which the shrimp were prepared and packed, as well as the potential sources of contamination.
What's Next
The FDA is actively investigating the cesium-137 contamination and the shipping processes from Indonesia, particularly focusing on the supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods). Further updates regarding the investigation and any additional recalls may follow as more information becomes available.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The primary health effect of concern following longer-term, repeated low-dose exposure (e.g., through consumption of contaminated food or water over time) is an elevated risk of cancer, resulting from damage to DNA within living cells of the body.” — FDA Statement
- “Consumers who have purchased affected shrimp should not consume the product and should dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.” — Direct Source Seafood LLC
