Walmart Recalls Radioactive Shrimp Amid FDA Warning on Cesium-137 Contamination

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public safety warning regarding specific batches of frozen shrimp sold under Walmart’s Great Value brand due to potential contamination with the radioactive isotope, Cesium-137. Concerns about this issue arose after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) identified Cesium-137 in shipping containers and shrimp products originating from Indonesia's PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, operating as BMS Foods. These products were detained at major U.S. ports, including Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah.

The FDA reported that while no products testing positive for Cesium-137 have penetrated the U.S. food supply, a precautionary recall of all Great Value brand frozen shrimp, with lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1, and a best-by date of March 15, 2027, was recommended. Even though these products have not tested positive, the entire shipment under these codes is being recalled as a preventative measure.

The agency noted that the contamination seems to have resulted from shrimp being prepared, packed, or held under conditions that might cause contamination. Consequently, all shipments from BMS Foods are currently banned from entering the U.S. until the originating issues are resolved. The FDA has also stated that Walmart has taken immediate action by recalling the shrimp in affected locations and is working closely with the supplier to further investigate the circumstances surrounding the contamination.

Cesium-137 is a man-made radioactive metal that can be harmful in large quantities. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that significant exposure to Cs-137 could lead to serious health issues, including burns, radiation sickness, and in severe cases, death. Even though only trace environmental amounts are typically found, unexpected findings in food products prompt further examination by the FDA.

The potentially contaminated shrimp products were distributed in 13 states, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Hence, the FDA advises consumers in these locations to discard the shrimp or return it for a refund. The FDA is investigating the root cause of the contamination in collaboration with CBP and Indonesian regulatory bodies to prevent future occurrences.

Walmart reassured customers in a statement that the health and safety of consumers are paramount, confirming the prompt removal of potentially affected products from store shelves and emphasizing their cooperation with ongoing investigations. Further steps include working with both BMS Foods and relevant regulatory agencies to trace potentially impacted products throughout the supply chain.

This incident comes in a competitive backdrop where the U.S. shrimp industry seeks stronger federal trade protections amid challenges posed by foreign markets and investments. The FDA’s swift actions align with its broader mission to ensure the safety of the nation’s food supply, particularly in controlling unwanted radioactive material entries, safeguarding consumer health, and mitigating any potential risks associated with contaminated seafood products.

In summary, while the risk from the recalled shrimp is assessed to be quite low, as per FDA input, preventive measures are critical due to the potential cumulative risks associated with extended low-dose exposure to radioactive substances like Cesium-137. With continued vigilance, the FDA is actively monitoring the situation to protect consumers and uphold standards in food safety.