Additional Coverage:
Shrimp Recall Widens Over Radioactive Contamination Concerns
The FDA has expanded a recall of frozen shrimp due to potential contamination with Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope. This latest recall involves several brands of frozen, cooked and raw shrimp distributed by Southwind Foods, LLC of Carson, California.
The affected products were sold under the brand names Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American and First Street between July 17 and August 8 in nine states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia.
This recall follows a similar one earlier this week involving Great Value brand frozen shrimp sold at Walmart. Both recalls stem from products packaged in Indonesia by BMS Foods.
The FDA has stated that BMS Foods products appear to have been processed under insanitary conditions, potentially leading to contamination. As a result, BMS Foods products are currently barred from import into the U.S.
While no illnesses have been reported, the FDA is working to trace all affected products and will continue to monitor the situation. Although no contaminated shrimp has been found in the U.S. food supply yet, the FDA assures the public that it is taking appropriate action.
Cesium-137, according to the EPA, can cause serious health issues, including burns, radiation sickness, and even death, if exposure occurs in large amounts.