- The FDA expanded its shrimp warning to include Kroger Mercado and AquaStar cocktail shrimp tied to an Indonesian supplier.
- No U.S. retail samples have tested positive for Cesium-137, and no illnesses have been reported.
- A full import alert is in place while the investigation continues.
We’ve already flagged the FDA’s warning about frozen shrimp with potential radioactive contamination. Now that the agency has widened the alert again, it’s best to give your freezer another quick scan before you thaw.
The latest additions include nearly 18,000 bags of Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp (2 lb) and approximately 26,460 trays of AquaStar Cocktail Shrimp (6 oz). Earlier notices covered Walmart’s Great Value shrimp and products from Southwind Foods.
All trace back to the same Indonesian processor, PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods), which is now under a full import alert while the FDA continues its investigation.
What’s the concern? Possible contamination with Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive isotope. The FDA states that no U.S. retail samples have tested positive, and no illnesses have been reported; this is a precautionary measure tied to shrimp that may have been prepared, packed, or held in insanitary conditions. Repeated low-dose exposure to Cs-137 in food or water can increase cancer risk over time, according to federal health officials.
How to spot the recalled items:
- The Kroger Mercado shrimp come in clear two-pound bags and were sold July 24 through August 11 at banners like Baker’s, Gerbes, Jay C, Kroger, Mariano’s, Metro Market, Pay Less, and Pick ’n Save. The bag shows UPC 011110626196 and either lot 10662 5139 (Best Before 11/19/2027) or 10662 5140 (Best Before 11/20/2027).
- The AquaStar Cocktail Shrimp were sold refrigerated at Walmart between July 31 and August 16 in a clear 6-ounce tray with a red and white label. Look for UPC 19434612191 and one of the following lots on the bottom: 10662 5106, 10662 5107, 10662 5124, or 10662 5125.
If your package matches, toss it or return it for a refund. For questions, you can contact AquaStar by calling 1-800-331-3440 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PT).
If your shrimp doesn’t match these labels, you’re fine to proceed with dinner—just keep an eye on FDA updates as this investigation evolves.
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