FDA Urges Disposal of Potentially Radioactive Walmart Shrimp

It might be wise to pause before diving into your next shrimp dish. The Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning concerning Great Value brand raw frozen shrimp sold at Walmart. These products could be contaminated with Cesium-137, a dangerous radioactive element.

The FDA’s alert followed discoveries by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials, who identified the potential threat while inspecting shipping containers at various U.S. ports. In response, FDA officials advised consumers on Tuesday to dispose of any affected Great Value shrimp they have bought.

Discovery and Initial Actions

Radiation concerns began after the CBP identified potential contamination during checks at four port locations. Subsequent testing by the FDA on shipments from BMS Foods, a distributor based in Indonesia, confirmed positive for radioactive material.

Although initial reports suggest that the contaminated shrimp haven’t made it to most grocery store shelves, some batches did slip through to retailers. Consequently, the FDA is seeking a comprehensive recall of all shipments from BMS Foods. Moreover, it has temporarily halted the company’s imports, citing breaches of the Federal Food, Drug, & Cosmetic Act linked to unsafe handling practices.

Understanding Cesium-137

The Environmental Protection Agency explains that Cesium-137 results from nuclear reactions. It poses serious health risks such as burns, severe radiation sickness, and fatal outcomes with substantial exposure.

A Rare Incident

Events like these, where food is recalled due to radioactive contamination, are uncommon. In the aftermath of the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in Japan, the FDA had imposed bans on certain seafood and produce imports, only lifting these restrictions two decades later in 2021.

As of now, Walmart has not provided any public comment on the situation.