What's Happening?
The FDA has expanded its recall of frozen shrimp products due to potential contamination with Cesium-137, a radioactive chemical. The recall affects products sold under the Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro brands, distributed by Direct Source Seafood LLC.
Approximately 83,800 bags of shrimp imported from Indonesia are being recalled. The affected products were sold at various retailers, including Price Chopper, Albertsons, and Safeway, across 17 states. The FDA initially announced the recall in August 2025, and the expanded notice was issued on December 19, 2025. No illnesses have been reported so far.
Why It's Important?
The recall highlights the ongoing challenges in ensuring food safety and the potential health risks associated with radioactive contamination. Cesium-137 exposure can lead to serious health issues, including cancer and acute radiation sickness. The recall affects a wide geographic area, impacting consumers and retailers in multiple states. It underscores the importance of stringent regulatory oversight and the need for effective monitoring of imported food products to prevent public health risks. The situation also raises concerns about the safety of global food supply chains and the measures needed to protect consumers from similar incidents in the future.
What's Next?
Consumers who have purchased the recalled shrimp are advised to dispose of the products and not consume them. Retailers and distributors are instructed to remove the affected products from shelves. The FDA and other regulatory agencies will continue to monitor the situation and may take further action if necessary. The Indonesian company responsible for the shrimp, PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, has been placed on an import alert, preventing their products from entering the U.S. until the issue is resolved. This incident may lead to increased scrutiny of seafood imports and stricter safety protocols.
