US urgently recalls imported frozen shrimp due to radiation contamination concerns

(Dan Tri) - The US asked Walmart to recall some frozen shrimp products imported from Indonesia after discovering the risk of radioactive contamination.

According to AP, the retail supermarket chain Walmart has recalled frozen raw shrimp originating from Indonesia in 13 states after health officials said they were at risk of radioactive contamination.

Specifically, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asked Walmart to recall three lots of Great Value brand frozen shrimp. The decision was made after officials discovered Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in shipping containers and a sample of breaded shrimp imported from Indonesia.

The radiation levels in the breaded shrimp sample were well below the FDA’s threshold for intervention. However, the agency argues that avoiding potentially risky products will help consumers reduce their exposure to low-level radiation, which can be harmful to health over the long term.

The FDA is investigating reports of Cesium-137 being detected in containers and products manufactured by PT Bahari Makmur Sejati, which does business in the United States under the name BMS Foods of Indonesia, according to the AP.

Walmart has recalled frozen raw shrimp originating from Indonesia in 13 states (Photo: iStock).

The FDA collected several product samples and found radioactivity in one sample of frozen breaded shrimp. That container and product were refused entry into the United States.

A Walmart spokesperson said the company immediately recalled the potentially risky products after the FDA’s request. They include Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp, all with a best before date of March 15, 2027. Customers can throw them away or return them to Walmart stores for a refund.

FDA officials warn that people exposed to low levels of Cesium-137 over long periods of time may face health risks.

Donald Schaffner, a food safety expert at Rugers University, said the risk from the recalled shrimp batch is quite low.

Cesium-137 is a byproduct of nuclear reactions, including nuclear bombs, tests, reactor operations, and accidents. However, this radioactive isotope is also widely distributed around the world , with small amounts found in soil, food, and air.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/kinh-doanh/my-thu-hoi-khan-tom-dong-lanh-nhap-khau-vi-lo-nhiem-phong-xa-20250820154924098.htm