Walmart shrimp recall radioactive concerns have intensified following an urgent FDA alert issued on August 19, 2025, regarding Great Value frozen shrimp potentially contaminated with the radioactive isotope Cesium-137[1][2][3].
Federal authorities are investigating shrimp products sold under Walmart’s Great Value brand that were imported from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) in Indonesia. U.S. Customs & Border Protection initially detected Cesium-137 contamination in shipping containers at major U.S. ports including Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah[2]. Although one shipment tested positive for Cesium-137, the FDA confirmed that this specific batch did not enter U.S. commerce. However, the agency recommended a complete recall of all potentially affected shrimp and urged consumers not to eat or serve these products[1][3].
Details of the Recall
- Product affected: Great Value frozen raw shrimp from Walmart.
- Supplier: PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (Indonesia), also known as BMS Foods.
- Lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, and 8005539-1[2].
- Contaminant: Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope.
The FDA’s investigation revealed that the shrimp may have been “prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions whereby it may have become contaminated with Cs-137 and may pose a safety concern”[3]. As a result, BMS Foods was added to the FDA’s “red list” and is prohibited from selling its products in the U.S. until safety standards are met.
Health Risks and Safety Advice
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, ingesting Cesium-137 can raise the risk of cancer and other serious health problems. Prolonged exposure has the potential to cause radiation sickness or even death, making the recall an important precaution for public health[3].
What should you do if you purchased recalled shrimp?
- Do not consume: If you have purchased Great Value raw frozen shrimp matching the affected lot codes, do not eat it or serve it.
- Dispose: The FDA and Walmart advise you to throw out any potentially contaminated shrimp.
- Refunds available: Consumers can contact the Walmart store where they purchased the product to obtain a full refund[1].
How Is Walmart Responding?
Walmart has placed “a sales restriction and removed this product from our impacted stores” and is cooperating with the FDA and its supplier to investigate the source and extent of the contamination[1]. The company’s statement to CBS News emphasized customer safety as its top priority.
Key Timeline
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 19, 2025 | FDA issues warning based on Cesium-137 discovery at U.S. ports |
| August 19, 2025 | Walmart initiates recall, removes affected shrimp from sale |
| August 20, 2025 | FDA confirms none of the contaminated products entered commerce, recall continues |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Has contaminated shrimp reached consumers? No shrimp testing positive for Cesium-137 has been released into U.S. commerce according to the FDA, but out of caution, the recall is in full effect[1][3].
- Is the recall nationwide? Yes, all shrimp imported from BMS Foods and sold under the Great Value label in Walmart stores should be considered part of the recall.
- What caused the contamination? The product was allegedly “prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions,” which introduced the radioactive Cesium-137 isotope[3].
The Importance of Food Safety Alerts
While cases of radioactive contamination are rare in food products, the FDA’s rapid response and Walmart’s cooperation underscore a strong commitment to consumer safety. The ongoing investigation covers the entire supply chain to trace and eliminate any risk.
If you are concerned whether you purchased any affected product, check your freezer for shrimp packages marked with the specified lot codes and dispose of any matches. For further questions, reach out to Walmart customer service or consult updates provided by the FDA.
Are you affected by the Walmart shrimp recall radioactive warning? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below, and follow this page for further updates as the investigation develops.