In brief
Aquastar Corp., a Seattle-based seafood distributor, has recalled nearly 157,000 pounds of cooked and frozen shrimp products from Kroger stores across the U.S. This recall follows concerns over potential contamination from cesium 137, a radioactive isotope linked to nuclear activity. Sold in more than 30 states, the products may pose a minor health concern, according to the FDA. In August, the FDA warned consumers against eating certain imported frozen shrimp from an Indonesian supplier after contamination was detected. Authorities emphasize that while the health risk is low, understanding the source of contamination is critical for public safety.
A Seattle seafood distributor has recalled over 157,000 pounds of shrimp sold at Kroger grocery stores across the U.S. due to ongoing concerns about potential radioactive contamination.
Aquastar Corp. initiated the recall after potential contamination with cesium 137 was discovered, a radioactive isotope associated with nuclear activities. The recall includes about 50,000 bags of Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp, approximately 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 products were available for sale between June 12 and September 17 at grocery stores in over 30 states, including Bakers, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, QFC, and others.
This is not the first time Aquastar has faced scrutiny; a previous recall occurred in August amidst similar concerns. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while the risk of long-term health impact appears to be minimal, exposure to even low levels of cesium 137 could raise health concerns over time.
In response to these findings, the FDA had previously issued a safety alert regarding certain frozen shrimp imported from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, an Indonesian company known as BMS Foods, where cesium 137 was detected in shipping containers and samples.
Despite these challenges, the FDA reassured that none of the contaminated shrimp that triggered alerts were sold to consumers, although they may have been produced under contaminated conditions. More than 3 million pounds of shrimp exported from BMS Foods have been imported to U.S. ports, prompting a import alert to halt further potentially contaminated shipments.
While the level of cesium 137 found in the shrimp was around 68 becquerels per kilogram—well below the FDA's threshold of 1,200 becquerels that necessitates health interventions—experts are advocating for thorough investigations into the contamination's origins and public transparency about the findings.
Ultimately, health risks associated with this incident are deemed low; however, ensuring the safety of seafood products remains a priority as federal officials continue to investigate the source of the hazardous material.
