FDA probe prompts Walmart shrimp recall over possible radioactive contamination
Though levels were below the FDA’s derived intervention limit of 1,200 Bq/kg, officials determined the finding could pose a potential health concern if consumed over long periods.
U.S.A – The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating reports of a radioactive isotope contamination in frozen shrimp imported from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) of Indonesia, while Walmart has issued a voluntary recall of affected products sold in 13 states.
The radioisotope, Cesium-137 (Cs-137), is a man-made product produced through nuclear reactions. While trace levels naturally occur in soil, air, and food, unexpected findings in seafood trigger regulatory investigation to reduce cumulative radiation exposure risks and protect public health.
The investigation began after U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) detected Cs-137 in shipping containers at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Savannah, and Miami.
FDA laboratory testing confirmed the presence of Cs-137 in one breaded shrimp product at 68.48 Bq/kg ± 8.25 Bq/kg.
Though levels were below the FDA’s derived intervention limit of 1,200 Bq/kg, officials determined the finding could pose a potential health concern if consumed over long periods.
Long-term exposure to radioactive contaminants such as Cs-137 may increase the risk of certain cancers, thyroid disorders, or other radiation-related illnesses due to the isotope’s ability to accumulate in the body over time.
All shipments that tested positive or raised alerts have been denied entry, and PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati has been added to the Import Alert 99-51 “red list” to block further imports until corrective action is taken.
Walmart’s recall affects Great Value raw frozen shrimp distributed after CBP’s first detection of Cs-137, though no products in stores have tested positive.
The lots under recall include – Lot code 8005540-1, Best by 3/15/2027; 8005538-1, Best by 3/15/2027; 8005539-1, Best by 3/15/2027
The shrimp was sold at Walmart locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia.
Consumers are advised to discard the shrimp or return it to any Walmart for a full refund.
FDA continues to coordinate with Indonesian seafood regulators to determine the contamination source and trace all potentially affected products.
“The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority,” a Walmart spokesperson said, confirming the product has been removed from stores and a sales restriction imposed.
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