FDA warns consumers about possibly radioactive shrimp sold at Walmart
- The FDA has warned against consuming specific Great Value frozen shrimp due to potential radioactive contamination.
- Cesium-137 was detected in shipments from Indonesia, although no shrimp sold in stores has tested positive.
- Consumers are advised to discard affected shrimp products to avoid potential health risks.
In August 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a warning regarding certain frozen shrimp products sold under the Great Value brand at Walmart. The warning arose after U.S. Customs and Border Protection discovered the presence of Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in shipping containers at major U.S. ports, including Los Angeles, Houston, Savannah, and Miami. Although none of the shrimp sold to consumers had tested positive for contamination at that time, health officials noted that the products came from Indonesian distributor BMS Foods, which indicated the possibility of contamination. The FDA indicated that several samples from BMS Foods also tested positive for Cs-137, suggesting that the shrimp may have been inadequately handled or produced under unsanitary conditions. Customers in 13 states, including Alabama, Florida, and Texas, were advised to discard or return the affected shrimp products with specific lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1, all of which have a sell-by date of March 15, 2027. The FDA further explained that while the level found in the shrimp was below the regulatory threshold for concern, avoiding these products is a precautionary measure to minimize exposure. Walmart, in compliance with the FDA's request, recalled the affected shrimp and emphasized that the health and safety of its customers is a top priority. The retail giant communicated its commitment to investigate the supplier relationship and the circumstances that led to this issue. Despite the low risk associated with radiation exposure in this case, officials advised consumers to err on the side of caution due to potential long-term health impacts from low-level radiation exposure. As the FDA continues its investigation, all products from BMS Foods have been banned from entering the U.S. until the conditions that led to contamination concerns are resolved. The agency is in ongoing discussions with distributors and retailers to ensure the removal of potentially hazardous products from the market while working to clarify how the contamination occurred.