Highlights:
- FDA detected radioactive Cesium-137 in frozen shrimp at US ports.
- Contaminated products originated from Indonesian supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati.
- Walmart recalled Great Value frozen shrimp with specific lot codes.
- FDA and CBP coordinating to block further contaminated shipments.
- Consumers advised to discard affected shrimp immediately for safety.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is actively investigating after a shipment of frozen shrimp intended for Walmart was found contaminated with a man-made radioactive material, Cesium-137 (Cs-137). The contamination was detected in shrimp products processed in Indonesia, flagged at four major U.S. ports including Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah, Georgia..
Contamination details and supplier ban
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) alerted the FDA to the presence of Cs-137 in shipping containers and multiple frozen shrimp samples from Indonesian supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods). The radioactive material was confirmed in one sample of breaded shrimp following radionuclide analysis. As a result, BMS Foods has been placed on the FDA’s “red list,” barring its products from being sold within the United States until the contamination issue is resolved.
The FDA stated that the shrimp “appears to have been prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions,” contributing to the contamination. In response, the agency issued an import alert to prevent further shipments with chemical contamination.
Walmart’s response and recall efforts
Walmart reportedly received shipments of the potentially contaminated raw frozen shrimp after the initial detection by CBP, although some of these shipments did not trigger alerts for Cs-137. Upon notification from the FDA, Walmart immediately initiated a recall of the affected products.
In an official statement to FOX Business, Walmart emphasized, “The health and safety of our customers is always a top priority.” The retail giant has restricted sales and removed the shrimp from impacted stores, while working with the supplier to investigate the root causes of the contamination.
The FDA continues to collaborate with CBP and Indonesian seafood regulators to trace all products processed by BMS Foods throughout the supply chain.
Consumer advisory
The FDA advises consumers not to eat or serve Great Value raw frozen shrimp from Walmart with specific lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1. Those who have purchased these products are urged to dispose of them immediately.
Understanding Cesium-137 and its risks
Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope created during nuclear reactions and can sometimes be found in trace amounts in the environment, including food, soil, and air. However, the presence of unexpected levels in food products triggers FDA evaluations, which determine if follow-up action such as recalls are necessary.
This incident has also reignited concerns among Gulf Coast shrimpers who argue that unfair foreign trade practices and international investments are harming the U.S. shrimp industry.
The FDA’s response reflects heightened vigilance to ensure food safety and consumer protection, especially as global supply chains continue to expand and diversify.
