Radioactive Shrimp Recall: Understanding Cesium-137 Contamination
⚠️ IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED
If you have Great Value frozen shrimp with lot codes 8005538-1, 8005539-1, or 8005540-1 (Best By: 3/15/2027), use theWalmart Shrimp Recall Checker immediately.
Sources: U.S. Food and Drug Administration, CBS News, CTV News
What is "Radioactive" in This Context?
The term "radioactive shrimp recall" refers to the detection of cesium-137 in Great Value frozen shrimp sold at Walmart stores. Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope that emits beta and gamma radiation. In this walmart radioactive shrimp incident, the contamination was discovered during routine FDA testing of imported seafood products from Indonesia.
The radioactive contamination in this walmart shrimp recall is particularly concerning because cesium-137 has a half-life of approximately 30 years, meaning it remains radioactive for decades. When consumed, it can accumulate in body tissues and potentially cause cellular damage over time.
Cesium-137 Levels and Health Risks
The cesium-137 shrimp in this recall showed contamination levels exceeding FDA safety thresholds. While the exact measurements are part of ongoing investigation, any detectable level of cesium-137 in food products triggers immediate recall protocols due to the serious health implications.
Potential Health Effects of Cesium-137 Exposure:
- Increased cancer risk with prolonged exposure
- Cellular damage from radiation
- Potential effects on reproductive health
- Acute radiation syndrome in extreme cases
- Long-term accumulation in muscle tissue
The walmart radioactive shrimp recall is particularly serious because cesium-137 behaves similarly to potassium in the body, distributing throughout muscle tissue where it can remain for extended periods.
Which States Are Affected?
The great value shrimp recall affects products sold in 13 states, representing major population centers across the United States:
- • California
- • Washington
- • Texas
- • Florida
- • Georgia
- • North Carolina
- • Virginia
- • New York
- • Pennsylvania
- • New Jersey
- • Illinois
- • Ohio
- • Michigan
Important: While these 13 states received direct distribution, online orders may have reached other states. All consumers should check their products regardless of location.
Complete List of All Affected Lot Codes
The FDA has identified three specific lot codes in the walmart shrimp recall. All affected products share the same Best By date of March 15, 2027:
Recalled Great Value Shrimp Lot Codes:
| Lot Code | Best By Date | Product |
|---|---|---|
| 8005538-1 | 3/15/2027 | Great Value Frozen Cooked Shrimp |
| 8005539-1 | 3/15/2027 | Great Value Frozen Cooked Shrimp |
| 8005540-1 | 3/15/2027 | Great Value Frozen Cooked Shrimp |
These lot codes are printed on the back of the package near the seal. The cesium-137 shrimp contamination is limited to these specific lots - other Great Value shrimp products with different lot codes or dates are not affected by this radioactive shrimp recall.
How Did Radioactive Material Get Into the Shrimp?
The source of cesium-137 contamination in the walmart radioactive shrimp is under investigation by the FDA and international authorities. Potential sources include:
- Environmental contamination in harvesting waters
- Industrial discharge or accidents near aquaculture facilities
- Legacy contamination from nuclear testing or accidents
- Improper disposal of medical or industrial radioactive materials
What Should Consumers Do?
Immediate Actions:
- Use the Walmart Shrimp Lot Code Checker to verify your product instantly
- If affected, DO NOT consume the product
- Seal the product in a plastic bag and dispose properly
- Return to any Walmart for full refund (no receipt required)
- If consumed, contact your healthcare provider about cesium-137 exposure
- Report to FDA at 1-888-SAFEFOOD
Frequently Asked Questions About Radioactive Shrimp
Can cooking eliminate cesium-137 from contaminated shrimp?
No. Cooking cannot remove radioactive contamination. The cesium-137 in the walmart radioactive shrimp remains present regardless of preparation method.
How can I detect radioactive contamination at home?
You cannot detect cesium-137 without specialized equipment. That's why checking lot codes against the walmart shrimp recall list is essential.
Are other Walmart seafood products affected?
Currently, only the specific Great Value shrimp lots listed are part of this radioactive shrimp recall. However, check FDA updates regularly.
What are the symptoms of cesium-137 exposure?
Acute symptoms are unlikely from food exposure, but long-term risks include increased cancer probability. Consult healthcare providers if you consumed affected products.