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Radioactive Shrimp Walmart Recall: FDA Issues Warning on Great Value Frozen Shrimp

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Dinesh

Introduction

Radioactive shrimp Walmart recall has captured national attention after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) confirmed that certain lots of Walmart’s Great Value frozen raw shrimp tested positive for trace levels of Cesium-137, a man-made radioactive isotope. While the detected amounts were below immediate danger thresholds, the FDA has urged a recall out of caution to protect American consumers.


What Happened in the Walmart Shrimp Recall?

  • On August 14, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) flagged shrimp shipments imported from BMS Foods in Indonesia for possible radioactive contamination.

  • FDA testing confirmed that one sample of breaded shrimp contained Cesium-137 at ~68 Bq/kg.

  • The federal limit for Cesium-137 in food is 1200 Bq/kg, meaning the detected level was about 5.6% of the action limit.

  • Despite being below the danger threshold, the FDA ordered a radioactive shrimp Walmart recall as a precaution.


Which Shrimp Products Are Affected?

The recall specifically involves:

  • Brand: Great Value (Walmart’s private label)

  • Product: Frozen Raw Shrimp

  • Lot Codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, 8005539-1

  • Best-By Date: March 15, 2027

The shrimp was sold at Walmart stores in 13 states including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia.


Why Is Cesium-137 Dangerous?

Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope commonly linked to nuclear accidents. It does not naturally occur in seafood. While small exposures like this recall are unlikely to cause immediate illness, long-term ingestion of radioactive materials can increase the risk of cancer and DNA damage.

This is why the radioactive shrimp Walmart recall is being taken so seriously — to prevent even minimal risk to millions of seafood consumers.


What Should Walmart Customers Do?

If you purchased Great Value shrimp recently, follow these steps:

  1. Check your freezer for the lot codes listed above.

  2. Do not consume or serve the recalled shrimp.

  3. Dispose of it safely or return it to Walmart for a full refund.

  4. Monitor your health and consult a physician if you have concerns about exposure.

  5. Stay updated by checking the official FDA Food Recall Alerts page.


Health Risks of Eating Radioactive Shrimp

According to the FDA, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this recall. At the measured level, short-term health effects are not expected. However, long-term ingestion of contaminated shrimp could pose risks including:

  • Increased cancer risk

  • Cellular damage

  • Bone marrow suppression (in chronic high exposure cases)

This makes early action essential, even when the risk seems small.


How Big Is the Recall Impact?

  • Americans eat an average of 4.6 pounds of shrimp per person annually (NOAA, 2024).

  • Walmart’s Great Value brand reaches more than 140 million shoppers weekly in the U.S.

  • The radioactive shrimp Walmart recall is one of the first recalls in recent history linked to Cesium-137 contamination in imported seafood.


FDA’s Response and Walmart’s Actions

  • The FDA has placed BMS Foods on its “Import Alert” list, preventing future shipments from entering the U.S. until the issue is resolved.

  • Walmart has removed all affected lots from its stores and promised full refunds to customers.

  • The agency emphasized that while the detected radiation levels are low, consumer trust and safety remain the top priority.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Cesium-137?

Cesium-137 is a man-made radioactive isotope that can contaminate food if exposed to nuclear activity or unsafe processing conditions.

Is the shrimp safe to eat if already cooked?

No. Cooking does not remove radiation. If your shrimp matches the recalled lots, do not eat it.

Has anyone gotten sick?

As of now, no illnesses have been reported in connection with this Walmart shrimp recall.

Is the recall only at Walmart?

Yes. This specific recall applies to Great Value frozen shrimp sold at Walmart stores in 13 states.

Can radioactive shrimp affect other seafood?

No. The contamination is linked to a specific importer. Other shrimp and seafood brands are not affected.


Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and is based on FDA announcements and verified news reports. It is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are concerned about possible exposure, consult a healthcare professional.


Final Thoughts

The radioactive shrimp Walmart recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of food safety and import inspections. Although the detected levels of Cesium-137 were below immediate danger limits, the FDA’s quick action shows a commitment to safeguarding public health.

As consumers, we should always stay updated on recalls, check packaging carefully, and report concerns directly to retailers or federal agencies.

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