More packages of frozen shrimp potentially affected by radioactive contamination have been recalled, federal officials said Thursday.
Southwind Foods, a company based in California, has announced a recall of its frozen shrimp products sold under various brand names including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, and First Street. These products, which were packaged and distributed between July 17 and August 8, reached stores and wholesalers across nine states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington.
An undated image supplied by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) shows a package of potentially contaminated frozen shrimp. This contamination is believed to be linked to radioactivity.
U.S. Food and Drug Association via AP
The products have the potential to be contaminated with Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope that is a byproduct of nuclear reactions.
Walmart stores this week recalled packages of Great Value frozen raw shrimp sold in 13 states because of potential radioactive contamination.
Following an investigation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued a safety alert due to the detection of Cesium-137 in shipping containers arriving at four U.S. ports. Additionally, a sample of frozen breaded shrimp imported by BMS Foods from Indonesia showed traces of this radioactive element.
The FDA has strongly advised consumers to avoid consuming the recalled shrimp products. Although traces of Cesium-137 are naturally present in the environment—found in food, soil, and air—the major health hazard arises from prolonged, repeated exposure to low doses, which may consequently elevate the risk of developing cancer.
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