American consumers are facing an expanded recall of frozen shrimp due to potential contamination with the radioactive isotope cesium-137 (Cs-137). The latest alert involves approximately 83,800 bags of shrimp from Direct Source Seafood LLC, based in Bellevue, Washington, under the Market 32 and Waterfront Bistro brands. This product was imported from Indonesia and sold across 17 states.
The recall initially began in August when traces of Cs-137 were detected in Great Value raw frozen shrimp. Following this, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expanded the recall to include the additional brands. Although there have been no reported illnesses linked to the shrimp, concerns about long-term health effects, particularly the increased risk of cancer from Cs-137 exposure, remain significant.
According to the FDA, the recalled Market 32 shrimp was sold in one-pound bags, identified by the UPC code 0 4173 01358 3, with best buy dates of April 22, 23, 24, 26, and 27, 2027. These products were distributed to Price Chopper stores located in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont, and include shrimp sold after July 11, 2025.
Similarly, the Waterfront Bistro shrimp, sold in two-pound bags with the UPC code 021130 13224-9, has best buy dates of April 25 or 26, 2027. This brand was available at Jewel-Osco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Lucky Supermarket across states including Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming, with the recall affecting shrimp sold on or after June 30, 2025.
The FDA indicates that Cs-137 is a man-made isotope that can be present in higher concentrations in water, and repeated exposure through contaminated food or drink could lead to long-term health issues. The FDA has not identified any products that tested positive for Cs-137 currently on the U.S. market.
Consumers who have purchased the affected shrimp are advised not to consume the product. Instead, they should dispose of it or return it to the point of purchase for a full refund. For further information, customers can contact Direct Source Seafood at 425-455-2291, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.
As the investigation continues, the FDA is closely monitoring shipping containers and shrimp products produced by BMS Foods in Indonesia to prevent further contamination concerns.
