Walmart Shrimp Recall: Radioactive Contamination | NPR

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Radioactive Contamination Prompts Walmart Shrimp Recall in 13 States

A nationwide recall of Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp has been initiated after U.S.health officials detected traces of Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in imported shipments. Teh U.S. Food and Drug Governance (FDA) requested the recall from Walmart on August 14, 2025, citing potential health concerns from long-term exposure to low levels of the contaminant.

FDA Investigation Uncovers Contamination Source

The FDA’s investigation began with alerts from U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials who identified Cesium-137 in shipping containers arriving at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah, Georgia. Subsequent testing of product samples revealed contamination in a sample of frozen breaded shrimp. These initial shipments were denied entry into the U.S. However, the FDA discovered that Walmart had received additional possibly affected products from the same source – P.T. Bahari Makmur Sejati, doing business as BMS Foods of Indonesia – in shipments that initially passed inspection.

“If you have recently purchased raw frozen shrimp from Walmart that matches this description, throw it away,” an FDA statement urged consumers.

Did you know? – Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that can persist in the surroundings for decades. it’s a byproduct of nuclear processes and is monitored globally due to its potential health effects.

Low Risk, But Precaution Advised

While the levels of cesium-137 detected were below FDA intervention levels, officials emphasize that minimizing exposure to even low-level radiation is prudent. Cesium-137 is a known byproduct of nuclear reactions,including those from nuclear weapons testing,reactor operations,and accidents. It exists in trace amounts globally in the environment – soil, food, and air – but the FDA is taking a cautious approach.

“The risk from the recalled shrimp is quite low,” explained a food safety expert at Rutgers University.”However, the agency is right to advise consumers to avoid potentially contaminated products to reduce exposure over time.”

Pro tip: – When a food recall is announced, check your freezer and pantry. Compare the lot codes on your products with those listed in the recall notice to ensure safety.

Recalled Products and Consumer Guidance

The recalled products include Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp with the following lot codes and best-by dates:

• Lot Code: 8005540-1, Best-by Date: March 15, 2027
• Lot Code: 8005538-1, Best-by Date: March 15, 2027
• Lot Code: 8005539-1, Best-by Date: March 15, 2027

these products were sold in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Walmart has fully cooperated with the recall and is advising customers to either discard the shrimp or return it to any Walmart store for a full refund.

The FDA continues to investigate the extent of the contamination and is working with international partners to prevent future occurrences.

Reader question: – What steps can international food suppliers take to better ensure the safety of exported products and prevent contamination issues like this?

Why the Recall? The recall was initiated after the FDA detected Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in shipments of Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp imported from P.T. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) of indonesia. The FDA requested the recall on August 14, 2025, due to potential health risks associated with long-term exposure