Health
FDA Issues Recall for Frozen Shrimp Sold at Walmart
Health Points
- FDA advises against consuming certain frozen shrimp sold at Walmart due to possible contamination.
- Products were processed by Indonesian company PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, with lot codes and best by dates provided.
- The shrimp may be contaminated with Cesium-137, a radioactive material, prompting a nationwide recall effort.
Federal health regulators have issued an alert targeting specific frozen shrimp products distributed to Walmart stores across multiple states, citing violations of food safety standards. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is urging consumers and businesses to avoid eating, selling, or serving these items due to potential contamination with Cesium-137, a radioactive substance.
According to the FDA, the shrimp in question comes from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, an Indonesian seafood processor. Contaminated batches were discovered in shipping containers at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah. The FDA’s advisory affects both shoppers and retailers as the investigation continues.
What to Look For
The recall applies to Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp with the following lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1. Packages are marked with a best by date of 3/15/2027. Consumers are encouraged to check packaging details carefully to identify affected items.
States with Affected Products
The recalled shrimp was sold at Walmart locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia.
What Action to Take
If you have purchased these shrimp, the FDA recommends disposing of the product and refraining from eating or serving it. “Contact a healthcare provider if you suspect you have been exposed,” states the FDA.
Distributors and retailers are also being instructed to remove the affected shrimp from shelves and prevent further sales.
Why Cesium-137 Matters
Cesium-137 is a radioactive material produced through nuclear activity, and exposure to large amounts can be hazardous to health. While everyday exposure is minimal, direct contact with higher concentrations may cause serious risks, including burns or radiation sickness.
If you have concerns about seafood safety or have purchased any of the listed products, it’s wise to check your freezer and follow the FDA’s advice to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
