Recall Update: RFK Jr. Issues Food Safety Warning on Walmart Radioactive Shrimp
- M. DuBose
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
A recent food safety recall has sparked concern after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. warned that some Walmart shrimp may be contaminated with the radioactive isotope cesium-137.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified trace levels of this byproduct of nuclear reactions in shipments of frozen shrimp imported from South Asia, prompting a food safety recall of the radioactive shrimp by both Walmart and California-based Southwind Foods.
Late last week, the FDA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) flagged shipping containers arriving at ports in Los Angeles, Houston, Miami, and Savannah, Georgia, after detecting cesium-137 in container samples. Further testing revealed a positive result in a sample of frozen breaded shrimp imported by Indonesia’s P.T. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods). Although shipments showing contamination were denied entry, other containers had already reached U.S. distributors and retailers before alerts were triggered. A
Secretary Kennedy emphasized that these South Asian shrimp products are heavily contaminated, stating, “We just stopped a shipment that was contaminated with cesium-137, which is radioactive.” He noted that European countries refused these imports, leading exporters to target the U.S. market. Kennedy confirmed that the FDA is increasing inspections on shrimp to protect American consumers and support domestic fishermen.
The FDA confirmed that detected levels of cesium-137 were well below the agency’s intervention thresholds but cautioned against repeated long-term exposure. Chronic low-dose ingestion of cesium-137 can elevate cancer risk over time. While cesium-137 contamination in the food supply is rare, trace amounts do occur globally due to past nuclear weapons testing and reactor operations. The FDA advises that avoiding potentially contaminated products can reduce unnecessary radiation exposure.
Details of the Recall
Walmart Food Safety Recall
Brand: Great Value frozen raw shrimp
Lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, 8005539-1
Best-by dates: March 15, 2027
States: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, West Virginia
Action: Consumers should discard the product or return it to any Walmart for a full refund.
Southwind Foods Recall
Brands affected: Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, First Street
Distribution period: July 17 to August 8
States: Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington
Action: Customers are urged to throw away any recalled packages or return them to the point of purchase.
The FDA strongly recommends that consumers not eat any of the recalled shrimp products. Anyone who has purchased these items should safely dispose of them or take advantage of refunds offered by Walmart and other retailers. Those with health concerns or questions about exposure should contact their healthcare provider.
This incident underscores the importance of rigorous import screening and collaboration between federal agencies. The FDA’s ramped-up inspections aim to prevent contaminated products from reaching store shelves, while supporting the U.S.’s highly regulated and sustainable seafood industry. Domestic shrimpers, particularly in the Gulf and Alaska, benefit from these measures, which help uphold consumer confidence and the integrity of American seafood.
Consumers are encouraged to stay informed via FDA announcements and retailer alerts. As investigations continue, the FDA will update safety thresholds and guidance. In the meantime, vigilance and prompt removal of recalled products remain the best defenses against potential health risks.
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