Walmart recalls frozen shrimp in 13 U.S. states over risk of radioactivity

Walmart Recalls Frozen Shrimp Due to Potential Radioactive Contamination

In a recent development, Walmart has issued a recall for frozen, raw shrimp sold in 13 U.S. states after federal health officials flagged potential radioactive contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requested the retail giant to remove three lots of Great Value brand frozen shrimp from shelves following the detection of Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in shipping containers and a sample of breaded shrimp imported from Indonesia.

According to FDA officials, the presence of Cesium-137 in the products could pose a “potential health concern” for individuals exposed to low levels of the radioactive substance over time. As a precautionary measure, consumers who have purchased raw frozen shrimp from Walmart matching the description provided are advised to dispose of the product immediately.

Despite the alarming discovery, food safety expert Donald Schaffner from Rutgers University reassured the public that the risk associated with the recalled shrimp is minimal. Cesium-137 is a byproduct of various nuclear activities, with trace amounts present in the environment. The level detected in the frozen breaded shrimp was below FDA intervention thresholds, but the agency emphasized the importance of avoiding potentially contaminated products to reduce long-term exposure to low-level radiation.

The FDA’s investigation into the contamination traced it back to products processed by P.T. Bahari Makmur Sejati, operating as BMS Foods in Indonesia. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials intercepted shipping containers containing Cesium-137 at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah, Georgia. Subsequent testing revealed contamination in a sample of frozen breaded shrimp, prompting the denial of entry for the affected containers and products.

Following these findings, Walmart initiated a voluntary recall of the implicated products, including Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp with lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1, all carrying best-by dates of March 15, 2027. The affected shrimp was distributed in 13 states, namely Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. Consumers are urged to either discard the products or return them to any Walmart store for a refund.

The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous food safety protocols and the vigilance required to ensure the well-being of consumers. By swiftly addressing the issue and taking proactive measures, Walmart aims to uphold its commitment to delivering safe and quality products to its customers.