American consumers are facing an expanded recall of frozen shrimp products due to potential contamination with the radioactive isotope cesium-137 (Cs-137). Direct Source Seafood LLC, based in Bellevue, Washington, has announced the recall of approximately 83,800 bags of frozen raw shrimp sold under the Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro brands, which were imported from Indonesia.
This recall follows an initial alert in August when traces of Cs-137 were detected in Great Value raw frozen shrimp. Since then, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has been investigating the issue, which has now led to the inclusion of additional brands sold in 17 states. Although no illnesses have been reported thus far, there are significant health concerns regarding long-term exposure to Cs-137, including an increased risk of cancer.
Details of the Recall
The recalled Market 32 shrimp was packaged in one-pound bags, identifiable by the UPC code 0 4173 01358 3. The affected products have best buy dates of April 22, 23, 24, 26, and 27 of 2027. These items were sold at Price Chopper stores in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, with the recall affecting shrimp sold after July 11, 2025.
Similarly, the Waterfront Bistro shrimp was sold in two-pound bags, marked with the UPC code 021130 13224-9. These products have best buy dates of April 25 or April 26, 2027, and were distributed through retailers including Jewel-Osco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Lucky Supermarket across Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. The recall pertains to shrimp sold on or after June 30, 2025.
Health Risks and Consumer Advisory
According to the FDA, cesium-137 is a man-made radioisotope that can be found in the environment, particularly in water. While traces are common, higher concentrations can pose serious health risks. Repeated exposure through contaminated food or water may lead to long-term DNA damage, significantly increasing the risk of developing cancer.
Although no illnesses related to this recall have been reported, consumers are strongly advised against consuming the affected shrimp. Those who have purchased these products can either dispose of them or return them to the retailer for a full refund. For further inquiries, consumers may contact Direct Source Seafood LLC at 425-455-2291, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.
The FDA continues to monitor the situation closely and is working to ensure public safety as investigations into the contamination source proceed.
