AquaStar Recalls Shrimp Over Possible Cesium-137 Contamination

Seattle-based distributor AquaStar (USA) Corp. has voluntarily recalled about 85,000 bags of frozen and cooked shrimp sold at Kroger and affiliated stores across roughly 31-34 states after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration flagged possible contamination with the man-made radioisotope cesium-137. The recall covers specific products — Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp, Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp, and AquaStar Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers — with UPCs, lot codes and best-by dates listed in the FDA notice. The FDA says the shrimp may have been prepared, packed or held under insanitary conditions and is investigating Indonesian processor PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods); officials report no illnesses and say products that tested positive did not enter U.S. commerce, though some shipments may still pose a risk. The action expands earlier cesium-137 shrimp recalls, including a recent Walmart/Great Value recall, and affects many retailers such as Fred Meyer, Ralphs, King Soopers and QFC for products sold between June 12 and Sept. 17. Consumers are warned not to eat the affected shrimp, should check FDA listings for specific lot codes, and may return or dispose of packages for a refund or contact AquaStar or their place of purchase with questions.