FDA Issues Recall of 26k Shrimp Due to Radioactive Shrimp Exposure Risk in Popular Food Brands

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued multiple recalls of frozen shrimp—initially targeting Walmart’s Great Value brand and later expanding to products from Southwind Foods such as Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, and First Street. All pinpointing shrimp originating from Indonesia’s supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods). These recalls were triggered after U.S. Customs detected traces of the radioactive isotope Cesium-137 (Cs-137) in some shipments.

Cancer Risk Even in Low Doses

Though illnesses have not yet been reported, cesium-137 exposure—even at low doses—can increase cancer risk over extended periods by damaging DNA.

FDA Blocks Additional Product Imports Into The U.S.

In response, the FDA has placed BMS Foods under an import alert, blocking additional products from entering the U.S. until the company resolves the issues. Consumers are advised to check for affected lot codes—such as Great Value shrimp with lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1 (best by date March 15, 2027)—and to discard any matching packages instead of consuming or donating them. Retailers and distributors are similarly urged to dispose of the products and ensure they cease selling them.

This event highlights the critical need for heightened vigilance in the food supply chain—particularly for imported goods—and underscores the importance of robust safety protocols. For consumers, it serves as a reminder to stay informed, promptly discard recalled products, and consult health professionals if there's concern about exposure.