FDA Alerts: Radioactive Shrimp Found at Walmart in Ohio

Understanding the FDA Recall of Frozen Shrimp at Walmart

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recall for certain frozen shrimp products sold at Walmart, including stores in Ohio and Kentucky, due to concerns over possible radioactive contamination. The affected products were processed by an Indonesian company named PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, which operates under the brand BMS Foods. These shrimp are sold under the Great Value brand at Walmart.

The recall was announced on August 19, with the FDA stating that specific batches of raw frozen shrimp tested positive for Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive isotope. This discovery led to the decision to remove the product from the market, as it may pose a safety risk to consumers.

What Products Are Affected?

The recalled items include two-pound bags of Great Value brand Frozen Raw Ez Peel Tail-On Farm-Raised White Vannamei Shrimp. The affected lot codes and best-by dates are:

• Lot code: 8005540-1; best by date: 3/15/2027
• Lot code: 8005538-1; best by date: 3/15/2027
• Lot code: 8005539-1; best by date: 3/15/2027

Consumers who have these products in their homes should discard them immediately and avoid consuming or serving them.

What Is Cesium-137 and Why Is It Regulated?

Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that emits radiation as it decays. It is primarily produced through nuclear fission, according to the FDA. While it has applications in medical devices and industrial measurement tools, its presence in food is strictly regulated due to health risks.

Trace amounts of Cs-137 can be found in the environment, including soil, air, and water. However, the FDA and other agencies monitor and regulate its levels in food because prolonged exposure can lead to serious health issues, such as burns, acute radiation sickness, cancer, and even death.

In this case, the FDA confirmed the presence of Cs-137 in one sample of breaded shrimp, which was denied entry into the United States. Although only one shipment was affected, the agency warned that other products from the same manufacturer could also be at risk.

Import Alert and Manufacturer Actions

PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati has been placed on an import alert, which means no of their food products can enter the United States until they resolve any conditions that may have led to the contamination. This step is part of the FDA’s effort to ensure consumer safety and prevent further exposure to potentially harmful substances.

Distribution of Recalled Shrimp

The affected shrimp products were distributed across 13 states, including:

• Alabama
• Arkansas
• Florida
• Georgia
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Missouri
• Mississippi
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Texas
• West Virginia

This wide distribution highlights the importance of consumers checking the product details before purchasing.

What Should You Do If You Have the Recalled Shrimp?

If you have the recalled shrimp at home, the FDA advises you to throw it away and not consume or serve it. Retailers and distributors should also dispose of the product and refrain from selling or serving it.

Individuals who believe they may have been exposed to elevated levels of cesium should contact their healthcare provider. For complaints or adverse reaction reports, consumers can visit the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance portal.

Walmart Store Locations in Ohio and Kentucky

Walmart operates a significant number of stores in both Ohio and Kentucky. In Ohio, there are 138 supercenters, including multiple locations in cities like Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Canton, Dublin, Hamilton, and Akron. In Kentucky, Walmart operates 77 supercenters and nine Sam's Club stores.

This extensive network underscores the need for vigilance among consumers and retailers to ensure that all products meet safety standards.