Another Company Recalls Frozen Shrimp Due to Radioactive Contamination
Seattle-based company Aquastar (USA) Corp initiated a voluntary recall of frozen shrimp sold under several brand names across the United States after concerns about possible exposure to low levels of the radioactive isotope cesium-137 Friday.
The company, working with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), said no illnesses had been reported in connection with the recalled products, but urged customers to return or dispose of the shrimp as a precaution.
The recall extends to shrimp imported from Indonesia and distributed through major retailers nationwide.
Why It Matters
The Aquastar recall marks the latest in a series of seafood safety scares involving potential radioactive contamination.
Cesium-137 is a radioactive byproduct of nuclear fission and, while not detected in the current Aquastar shrimp lots, exposure to the substance over time can increase cancer risk and cause cellular damage.
Previous recalls of shrimp products due to similar concerns have raised new questions about imported foods and prompted federal scrutiny of overseas seafood processors and suppliers.
What To Know
Aquastar (USA) Corp recalled several frozen raw shrimp products, marketed under the AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro, and Publix brand names, according to the official FDA announcement.
The recall specifically involves shrimp imported from Indonesia, and covered products may have been prepared, packed, or held in conditions potentially exposing them to low levels of cesium-137.
Importantly, none of the recalled shrimp tested positive for cesium-137, but the recall proceeded on a precautionary basis to prevent even theoretical risk. No symptoms or illnesses associated with radiation exposure from these products have been reported as of mid-October 2025.
The recall affects bags of shrimp sold from June 12 to September 17, 2025, at multiple retail chains including Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, and more. FDA officials said consumers should not eat any of the recalled products. Instead, shrimp packages should be returned to the place of purchase for a full refund, or disposed of safely. Consumers with questions can contact AquaStar at 1-800-331-3440.
The Aquastar recall follows several other similar warnings in recent months. In August and September 2025, the FDA announced and expanded recalls for shrimp distributed by Southwind Foods LLC and Lawrence Wholesale LLC after tests found the radioactive chemical cesium-137 in select shipments from Indonesian supplier PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods).
Those recalls impacted shrimp sold under brands including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, First Street, and some Kroger-branded products. Distribution was widespread, covering retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, and others in dozens of states.
Although no illnesses have been directly tied to consumption of these shrimp products, the FDA and U.S. Customs & Border Protection have increased screening and monitoring of seafood imports from implicated suppliers.
Cesium-137 is a radioactive metal commonly released as a byproduct in nuclear reactors or weapon tests.
The substance can pollute the environment after nuclear accidents and can persist in soil or water. When exposure occurs through food or drinking water, cesium-137 can accumulate in the body and increase the risk of cancer due to its DNA-damaging properties.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), high doses of cesium-137 can cause burns, acute radiation sickness, and even death. Lower, repeated exposures may raise long-term health risks without causing immediate symptoms.
Authorities emphasize that while background levels of cesium can occur naturally, added levels from contaminated food are a serious public health concern.
What People Are Saying
FDA statement, via company announcement, Friday: “Although none of the recalled products tested positive for cesium-137, this precautionary recall is issued with the full knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. No illnesses have been reported to date.”
AquaStar (USA) Corp, via press office, Friday: “Consumers who purchased the affected shrimp should not consume the product. They are advised to dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.”
FDA spokesperson, via ABC News, in September: “The FDA stated that shrimp from BMS Foods violated the Federal Food, Drug, & Cosmetic Act as it appeared to have been prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions, potentially leading to contamination with Cesium-137 and posing a safety concern.”
What Happens Next
The FDA has urged consumers to follow recall instructions and dispose of affected shrimp promptly.
Further investigation and tracing of potentially impacted products continue. U.S. authorities are working with Indonesian suppliers and international regulators to address any lapses in seafood safety.
The FDA has suspended imports from identified sources linked to cesium-137 findings until safety concerns are resolved. Consumers can monitor FDA updates and file complaints through the FDA’s Industry and Consumer Assistance portal if they suspect adverse effects.
