Radioactive Shrimp Recall: FDA Bans Indonesian Imports Over Cesium-137 Contamination Concerns

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning following the detection of Cesium-137 contamination in frozen shrimp products distributed in the United States. The radioactive material, found in samples of Great Value raw frozen shrimp sold at Walmart, originated from Indonesian distributor PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, also known as BMS Foods. U.S. Customs and Border Protection first identified Cesium-137 in shrimp shipments at major ports, including Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah.

Although no contaminated shrimp has entered the U.S. food supply, the FDA has advised against the consumption, sale, or service of certain Great Value shrimp products. The affected products are identified by the following lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1, with a best-by date of March 15, 2027. Consumers who have these products are instructed to dispose of them immediately.

Southwind Foods, a California-based company, is also conducting a voluntary recall of shrimp due to potential contamination. The company's frozen shrimp, sold under various brand names, including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, and First Street, were distributed to numerous states between July 17 and August 8. Southwind Foods has advised customers to discard the affected products or return them for a refund.

The FDA emphasizes that repeated low-dose exposure to Cesium-137 can increase the risk of cancer, noting the serious health implications of potential contamination. As a result, the agency has placed BMS Foods on a "red list," temporarily banning its products from entering the U.S. market until the contamination issue is adequately addressed. The agency is coordinating efforts with distributors and retailers to ensure a comprehensive recall of all potentially affected products.

In response to the contamination alert, Walmart swiftly pulled the implicated shrimp from its shelves. The company confirmed it has enacted a sales restriction and is cooperating with the FDA to investigate the source and scope of the contamination further. The FDA is working closely with Indonesian regulatory bodies to determine the root cause of the Cesium-137 presence and to prevent future occurrences.

The presence of Cesium-137, a byproduct of nuclear fission, in consumer products raises significant safety concerns. FDA's ongoing investigation aims to mitigate risks and safeguard public health by blocking the entry of contaminated shrimp into the food supply chain. The agency underscores its commitment to trace all implicated products processed by BMS Foods and maintain stringent safety standards.

Meanwhile, Southwind Foods has opened a hotline for customer inquiries related to the recall, emphasizing their proactive stance on maintaining consumer safety. This incident underscores the pivotal role of federal oversight in monitoring food imports for contamination and taking corrective actions to protect consumers from potential health risks associated with radioactive materials.