Radioactive Shrimp: Walmart Product Recall Underway

Yes, you read that right. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning shoppers not to eat certain frozen shrimp sold at Walmart after tests flagged possible radioactive contamination.

The shrimp, sold under the Great Value brand, came from an Indonesian supplier that is now under investigation. Walmart has already pulled the product and is offering refunds.

Which Walmart Shrimp Products are Under Recall?

The FDA issued a “Do Not Eat” advisory for Walmart’s Great Value branded frozen raw shrimp produced by PT Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) in Indonesia. U.S. Customs flagged the supplier after detecting traces of Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in related shipments.

Even though the shrimp on shelves didn’t test above safety limits, the FDA issued a recall because of questionable processing conditions.

How Has Walmart Responded?

Walmart has already:

• Removed the recalled shrimp from stores in multiple states
• Issued refunds for customers returning the product
• Cooperated with the FDA’s ongoing investigation

Meanwhile, the FDA has suspended further imports from BMS Foods until the safety concerns are resolved.

What Are the Health Risks of Cesium-137?

Cesium-137 is a byproduct of nuclear reactions. At high levels, it can increase cancer risk over time.

In this case, the FDA confirmed that no unsafe radiation levels were found in the recalled shrimp. Still, out of caution, the products are being pulled before any risk to consumers develops.

What to Do If You Bought Recalled Shrimp from Walmart

If you’ve recently bought Great Value frozen raw shrimp, here’s your action plan:

1. Check your freezer for the recalled brand and lot numbers
2. Do not eat the shrimp if it matches the recall
3. Discard or return the product to Walmart for a refund
4. Talk to your doctor if you’re worried about possible exposure

Why This Recall Matters for Food Safety

Most food recalls involve bacteria like Listeria or Salmonella. In contrast, this recall involves radiation exposure, a far less common issue that tends to grab headlines due to its long-term health risks.

This recall also highlights:

• The complexity of global supply chains – U.S. shoppers depend on overseas processors which may have differing food safety standards relating to food preparation
• Why preventive recalls matter – regulators acted before any harm occurred, showing how proactive measures can help protect public health
• Food safety is part of national security – Safe imports and strong oversight help prevent public health crises and maintain confidence in the food system.

Bottom Line: Stay Alert, Stay Safe

Radioactive shrimp wasn’t on anyone’s 2025 bingo card, but it shows why paying attention to food recalls matters. The FDA and Walmart moved quickly, which means most shoppers were likely protected before this became a bigger issue.