FDA Alerts Shoppers: Walmart’s Great Value Shrimp May Pose Radioactive Contamination Risks

Certain frozen shrimp sold at Walmart under the Great Value brand may not be safe to eat due to potential radioactive contamination. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned consumers not to eat or serve these shrimp.

These shrimp were imported from the Indonesian company PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati. The FDA discovered a radioactive isotope called Cesium-137 in one shipment, although that shipment did not enter U.S. markets.

At-Risk Products

The FDA identified specific lots to avoid:

• Great Value frozen raw shrimp, lot code: 8005540-1, Best by Date: 3/15/2027
• Great Value frozen raw shrimp, lot code: 8005538-1, Best by Date: 3/15/2027
• Great Value frozen raw shrimp, lot code: 8005539-1, Best by Date: 3/15/2027

If you have purchased any of these, it’s best to dispose of them. Both retailers and distributors are advised against selling or serving these products.

What is Cesium-137?

Cesium-137 is a radioactive element. It can be produced by nuclear fission and is often found in medical devices. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, this isotope is also a byproduct of nuclear reactor operations and weapons testing.

Health Concerns

The level of Cesium-137 found in the shrimp was at 68 Bq/kg, which is below the FDA’s concern threshold of 1200 Bq/kg for food. While the FDA has stated that this level should not pose an immediate danger, repeated exposure to low levels of radiation could carry health risks, including an increased chance of cancer over time.

Experts recommend steering clear of any products that may carry similar contaminants to minimize long-term health impacts. It’s a timely reminder of the importance of food safety and the rigorous checks that should be in place to protect consumers.

A Wider Perspective

According to the FDA, recalls and warnings about radioactive contamination are not unprecedented. A 2011 report indicated increased scrutiny over seafood imports following concerns about radiation from the Fukushima disaster in Japan. To protect consumers, the FDA and other health authorities have implemented more stringent regulations over the years, ensuring that harmful substances are kept well below harmful levels.

In the current wave of conversations surrounding food safety on social media, many users are expressing concern and urging others to verify their food purchases. As awareness around products and health continues to grow, staying informed about such warnings is crucial.

If you’d like to learn more about radiation in food, check the EPA’s introduction on Cesium-137 here.

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Food and Drug Administration, Walmart