Federal alert over radioactive imports
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a consumer alert on some Great Value raw frozen shrimp sold at Walmart after it was found to contain possible contamination with Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope.
The alert followed a tip from U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which measured high radiation levels on shipping containers arriving at four U.S. ports. FDA analysis done on shrimp imported by BMS Foods, an Indonesian broker, then found the isotope.
Products identified in the recall
Although none of the contaminated shrimp has reached American supermarkets officially, the FDA is requesting an outright recall of products linked to the contaminated shipments.
The following Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp products should not be eaten, sold, or served:
- Lot code: 8005540-1, Best if used by date: 3/15/2027
- Lot code: 8005538-1, Best if used by date: 3/15/2027
- Lot code: 8005539-1, Best if used by date: 3/15/2027
“If you purchased raw frozen shrimp at Walmart recently with these labels, discard it immediately,” the FDA said in a statement.
Why the FDA is acting now
While no shrimp that were found to test positive for caesium-137 made their way into the food supply, the FDA is acting to avoid this. The agency is working with Walmart and other distributors to remove the tainted products and avoid future imports.
The BMS Foods shrimp, the FDA explained, was non-compliant with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act since it appeared to have been packed, processed, or stored in unsanitary conditions that would generate radioactive contamination.
Because of this, all BMS Foods imports are now barred from being imported in the United States until the company addresses safety problems.
What is caesium-137, and why is it hazardous?
Caesium is a very soft, white metal that has a melting point just above room temperature. When combined with chlorides, it forms a powdery material. Caesium-137 (Cs-137) is a radioactive form and is frequently produced as a byproduct of nuclear fission.
This information is provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA):
- Severe external exposure can lead to burns, radiation disease, or death.
- Even low doses of long-term exposure can cause severe health damage upon ingestion or inhalation.
The FDA underscored that its warning is precautionary, but contamination is not taken lightly at any level because of potential health effects.
What the consumers and retailers must do next
The FDA suggests that all those who purchased Great Value shrimp with the recalled lot codes throw them away immediately. Retailers and wholesalers have been asked to withdraw any remaining inventory from store shelves as well as from warehouse facilities.
The agency further added that it closely watches Walmart and other shrimp suppliers to ensure no infected shrimp ends up on consumer plates.
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Increasing concerns regarding imported seafood safety
This episode comes amidst heightened inspections of imported food and more stringent U.S. safety checks. While shrimp is one of the top-imported seafood products in America, it is also among the most frequently cited for contamination issues — from antibiotics to, in this strange case, radioactive material.
The FDA’s quick response attests to its dedication to keeping dangerous products off the market altogether, even where only suspected contamination is involved.
