In brief
In a significant health warning, Aquastar Corp. has recalled nearly 157,000 pounds of frozen shrimp sold at various grocery stores nationwide. This action stems from fears about potential radioactive contamination with cesium-137, a substance linked to nuclear reactions. The FDA is closely monitoring the situation, advising consumers about potential health risks.
A Seattle seafood distributor has recalled more cooked and frozen shrimp sold at Kroger grocery stores across the U.S. due to ongoing concerns regarding potential radioactive contamination.
Aquastar Corp. on Saturday recalled nearly 157,000 additional pounds of shrimp linked to possible contamination with cesium-137, a radioactive isotope. The newly recalled items include approximately 50,000 bags of Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp, around 18,000 bags of Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp, and over 17,000 bags of AquaStar Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers.
The affected products were sold between June 12 and September 17 at grocery chains across more than 30 states, such as Bakers, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Fred Meyer, King Soopers, and more.
This recall follows an earlier action in August when similar products were pulled off the shelves due to cesium-137 concerns identified by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite the FDA stating that the health risk may be low, the shrimp could present a potential health concern for those who may be exposed to low levels of cesium-137 over time.
The FDA previously warned consumers against consuming other imported frozen shrimp from an Indonesian company, PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati. Reports indicate the cesium-137 was detected in shipping containers sent from Indonesia, and investigations are ongoing to determine the contamination's source.
Experts have noted the importance of understanding the contamination's origins, stressing the need for transparency and public safety regarding food products.
