Radioactive Shrimp Recall Issued as FDA Warns Frozen Shrimp Sold Across Multiple States
On December 19, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a rare and serious food recall. The agency warned that frozen shrimp sold in stores across multiple states may have been contaminated with radioactive material, specifically cesium-137.
More than 83,000 bags of raw frozen shrimp from brands like Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro were pulled from shelves because of this risk. This alert has grabbed national attention because radiation in food is uncommon and raises concerns about safety. Many shoppers are now checking their freezers to see if they bought the affected shrimp.
Federal officials are still investigating how the contamination happened. For now, consumers are being urged not to eat the shrimp and to either return it or throw it away.
What the FDA Found in the Shrimp Recall?
On December 19, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration confirmed a major recall of frozen shrimp because of potential cesium‑137 contamination. The recall was issued after Direct Source Seafood LLC found signs that its shrimp may have been exposed to this radioactive isotope during preparation, packing, or storage. The affected products include Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro frozen raw shrimp imported from Indonesia. Authorities emphasize that consumers should not eat these shrimp and should return or dispose of them safely.
Cesium‑137 (Cs‑137) is a man‑made radioactive element created by nuclear reactions. It does not occur naturally at harmful levels but can enter the environment through accidents or improper handling of radioactive materials. Long‑term exposure to Cs‑137, especially through repeated consumption of contaminated food, may increase cancer risk by damaging DNA in cells.
As of the latest announcements, no illnesses linked to this recall have been reported. Federal investigators remain active in tracing how the contamination occurred and whether additional products could be at risk.
Brands, Batches, and States Affected by the Radioactive Shrimp Recall
The FDA’s recall covers about 83,800 bags of frozen raw shrimp sold in multiple U.S. states. The products were sold under two store brands: Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro.
Specific Products Affected
- Market 32 frozen raw shrimp (1‑lb bags) with best‑by dates from April 22-27, 2027, sold at Price Chopper stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.
- Waterfront Bistro frozen raw shrimp (2‑lb bags) with best‑by dates April 25 or 26, 2027, sold at Jewel‑Osco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Lucky Supermarkets in Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming.
These frozen shrimp products were distributed beginning as early as June 30, 2025 and continued through the summer and fall.
This recall follows earlier actions in 2025 when other frozen shrimp brands were pulled from shelves after similar concerns about Cs‑137 contamination. Multiple recalls have involved products sold at major retailers like Walmart and Kroger, underscoring how widespread the issue has become.
How Radioactive Contamination Can Enter Seafood Supply Chains?
Radioactive contamination of seafood is rare, but experts say there are a few pathways that could explain how cesium‑137 enters the food supply. Cs‑137 is produced during nuclear fission reactions in power plants and industrial equipment. If radioactive materials are not handled and disposed of properly, they can contaminate water and soil.
Imported shrimp may become exposed if packing or processing facilities are near contaminated environments. In some cases, shipping containers themselves have shown traces of Cs‑137 when examined by customs officials at U.S. ports.
Environmental scientists also note that once radioactive particles enter a water body, they can attach to sediment and marine life. Shrimp, which feed near the ocean floor, may absorb these particles more readily than species that stay higher in the water.
Global monitoring programs aim to catch contamination early, but gaps remain. Differences in testing and inspection standards between countries can allow dangerous products to enter supply chains unnoticed until they reach markets.
Health Risks of Eating Radioactive Shrimp
Radioactive contamination in food is unusual, but health officials are clear about the risks. Short‑term exposure to low levels of Cs‑137 generally does not cause immediate symptoms like nausea or burns. Even so, repeated consumption of contaminated food over time may increase the risk of cancer because the isotope can damage DNA inside living cells.
For most people, a one‑time exposure to low levels of radiation through food is unlikely to cause acute illness. However, children, pregnant females, and people with weakened immune systems are often advised to be more cautious with any potential radioactive exposure.
Health agencies including the FDA and CDC stress that these recalls are precautionary. So far, there have been no verified cases of sickness tied to the radioactive shrimp recalls.
Radioactive Shrimp Recall: What Consumers Should Do
If you bought frozen shrimp with the names and dates listed above, do not eat it. Handling and consumption could pose long‑term risks if contamination is confirmed.
Check the UPC codes and best‑by dates on shrimp bags in your freezer. If they match the recalled products, discard them safely or return them to the store for a refund. Retailers will typically accept returns of recalled items even without a receipt.
When disposing of the shrimp at home, place the bags in sealed trash bins to prevent accidental handling. Do not flush seafood down drains or compost it.
If you have eaten the recalled shrimp and feel unwell, contact a healthcare provider. Symptoms from radiation contamination are rare and usually not immediate, but medical advice is sensible if you’re concerned.
Retailer and Importer Responsibility Under FDA Rules
Retailers that sold the affected shrimp have begun removing them from shelves. Stores including Price Chopper, Safeway, Jewel‑Osco, Albertsons, and others are participating in the recall by pulling inventory and alerting customers at checkout.
Importers and processors are legally required to work with the FDA on recalls when products may harm public health. This includes cooperating in tracking shipments, notifying distributors, and providing accurate product information.
Failure to act could lead to regulatory penalties, although voluntary recalls like this one usually focus on consumer safety rather than punishment. This recall also highlights how manufacturers and suppliers must reinforce quality checks to avoid similar crises.
Is the US Food System Prepared for Radioactive Contamination?
This recall has tested parts of the U.S. food safety system. The FDA’s ability to track and quickly pull products from shelves shows strength in consumer protection. However, experts say detecting radioactive contaminants remains challenging because tests for radiation are not routine for most food imports unless flagged by customs or other alerts.
International coordination and stricter monitoring may reduce risks in the future, especially for seafood imported from regions where environmental controls are weaker. Agencies are also exploring better data sharing to prevent contaminated seafood from reaching U.S. markets.
Consumer Trust and the Frozen Seafood Market Impact
Shrimp is one of the most popular frozen seafood items in the U.S., and this recall may affect buyer confidence. Consumers often trust that imported foods meet safety standards, but recalls like this can make shoppers hesitate before buying similar products.
The industry may see temporary dips in shrimp sales and higher demand for domestic or certified products with stronger safety records. Retailers may also increase communication about quality checks and source transparency to rebuild trust.
Ultimately, the recall underscores how even low‑probability risks can shape market behavior and highlight the importance of rigorous safety systems.
Final Words
The radioactive shrimp recall is rare but serious. No illnesses are reported yet, but consumers should follow FDA instructions. This incident shows the importance of food safety, vigilance, and transparency in the supply chain.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Frozen shrimp sold under Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro brands were recalled on December 19, 2025 because they may contain trace radioactive cesium‑137. These bags were sold in many U.S. states.
Officials say eating a single serving is unlikely to cause immediate harm. But long‑term exposure to cesium‑137 could raise cancer risk if eaten often over time.
Look at the brand name, UPC code, and best‑by dates on the bag. If it matches the recalled Market 32 or Waterfront Bistro shrimp, do NOT eat it.
Disclaimer
The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes. Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.
