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Walmart recalls potentially radioactive shrimp sold in 13 states

FDA detected Cesium-137 in shipping containers and a batch of Indonesian shrimp, prompting a recall of three Great Value lots. Consumers should discard or return the affected products for a refund.

August 20, 2025 at 12:16 PM
blur Walmart recalls potentially radioactive shrimp sold in 13 US states

FDA detected Cesium-137 in shipping containers and a sample of Indonesian shrimp, prompting a Walmart recall.

Walmart recalls potentially radioactive shrimp sold in 13 states

The FDA asked Walmart to pull three lots of Great Value frozen raw shrimp after tests found Cesium-137 in shipments and in one Indonesian product. The recalled products carry lot codes 8005540-1, 8005538-1 and 8005539-1 with best by dates of March 15 2027, and were sold in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas and West Virginia.

The level detected was far below FDA intervention levels, and officials described the overall risk as low. Still, avoiding potentially contaminated food reduces exposure to low level radiation over time. Walmart said it moved quickly to recall the goods and refunds are available at any Walmart store. The FDA is investigating the Indonesian producer PT Bahari Makmur Sejati, known as BMS Foods, and customs officials flagged shipments at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami and Savannah.

Key Takeaways

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FDA recalls three Great Value shrimp lots after Cesium-137 detection
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Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope linked to nuclear activity
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Detected levels are below intervention thresholds, but caution remains
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13 states affected; consumers told to discard or return products
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Indonesian supplier and multiple ports are under investigation
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Walmart acted quickly to issue the recall and refund
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This case highlights the complexity of global food safety oversight

"If you have recently purchased raw frozen shrimp from Walmart that matches this description, throw it away."

FDA consumer advisory

"The risk from the recalled shrimp is quite low."

Donald Schaffner, Rutgers University food safety expert

"Walmart immediately recalled the products."

Walmart spokesperson

"Cesium-137 is a byproduct of nuclear reactions, including nuclear bombs, testing, reactor operations and accidents."

Background on Cesium-137

This incident shows how a global food supply chain can carry risk from one supplier to many ports. Testing and recall processes act quickly, but clear communication across brands and borders is crucial to protect consumers.

Retailers like Walmart face pressure to balance safety with cost and trust. Regulators may push for tighter checks at import points, which could slow shipments but improve confidence. Public attention on recalls can shape policy and investor expectations for food safety programs across the industry.

Highlights

  • Safety first, every shipment matters
  • A low risk does not mean no risk
  • When in doubt discard or return
  • Trust in the supply chain must be earned again

Radioactive contamination risk in imported seafood

The recall involves a potential radioactive contaminant in imported shrimp. While officials describe the immediate health risk as low, the situation requires strong import screening and clear guidance for consumers to prevent exposure over time.

The episode tests how fast safety signals travel from port to pantry.

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