Extensive Frozen Shrimp Recall Announced
A seafood firm located in Bellevue has initiated a significant recall affecting more than 80,000 packages of frozen raw shrimp. The action was taken after it was discovered that the products were processed, packaged, or stored in conditions that were not sanitary, potentially leading to contamination with cesium-137 (Cs-137).
Understanding Cesium-137
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope of cesium. It is frequently utilized in medical equipment and is also generated as a byproduct of nuclear fission in reactors and weapons.
"Traces of Cs-137 are widespread and can be present in the environment at background levels, and at higher levels in water or foods grown, raised, or produced in areas with environmental contamination," the FDA stated. "The primary health effect of concern following longer-term, repeated low-dose exposure (e.g., through consumption of contaminated food or water over time) is an elevated risk of cancer, resulting from damage to DNA within living cells of the body."
Recall Details and Affected Products
Direct Source Seafood LLC issued the recall on Dec. 19, covering 83,800 bags of shrimp imported from Indonesia. The products are marketed under the Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro labels.
The specific items recalled include the one-pound Market 32 Frozen Raw Shrimp (UPC 0 41735 01358 3) and the two-pound Waterfront Bistro Frozen Raw Shrimp (UPC 021130 13224-9). The FDA reports that these products were available for sale starting in late June and early July 2025.
Distribution and Impact
These shrimp were distributed to various supermarket chains, including Price Chopper, Jewel-Osco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Lucky, among others. The recall impacts multiple states: Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, and Wyoming.
Current Status and FDA Statement
To date, the FDA has not received any reports of illnesses related to this recall. The agency also provided reassurance regarding the situation.
"At this time, no product that has tested positive or alerted for Cesium-137 (Cs-137) has entered the U.S. marketplace," the FDA stated.
