American consumers face increased health risks as a major recall of shrimp products expands due to potential contamination with the radioactive isotope cesium-137 (Cs-137). Direct Source Seafood LLC, located 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. The shrimp, imported from Indonesia, has raised concerns about long-term health implications linked to Cs-137 exposure.
The recall originated in August when frozen shrimp from the Great Value brand was identified with traces of Cs-137. Since then, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has broadened the recall to incorporate additional brands distributed across 17 states. Although no illnesses have been reported, health experts warn about the risks associated with Cs-137, particularly its potential to increase cancer risk over time.
Details of the Recall
The FDA’s latest update indicates that the affected products include frozen raw shrimp sold in one-pound bags under the Market 32 brand. These bags, identifiable by the UPC code 0 4173 01358 3, carry best buy dates of April 22, 23, 24, 26, and 27 of 2027. Market 32 shrimp were available at Price Chopper stores located in Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont. The recall pertains to shrimp sold after July 11, 2025.
Additionally, the Waterfront Bistro brand, sold in two-pound bags with the UPC code 021130 13224-9, is also included in the recall. The best buy dates for these bags are April 25 and April 26 of 2027. This brand was distributed through Jewel-Osco, Albertsons, Safeway, and Lucky Supermarkets in states such as Colorado, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Montana, North Dakota, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming. The recall covers shrimp sold on or after June 30, 2025.
Health Implications and Consumer Guidance
The FDA explains that Cs-137 is a man-made radioisotope of cesium, and while it exists in the environment, higher concentrations can be found in water. Continuous exposure through contaminated food or water sources poses significant long-term health risks, including the potential for DNA damage which may lead to cancer.
To ensure safety, consumers are urged not to consume the recalled shrimp. Those who have purchased the affected products are advised to dispose of them or return them to the point of sale for a full refund. For further inquiries, consumers can contact Direct Source Seafood at 425-455-2291, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.
As the FDA continues to investigate the contamination reports linked to shipping containers and frozen shrimp products from BMS Foods in Indonesia, health officials remain vigilant. The agency has emphasized that, to date, no products containing confirmed Cs-137 contamination have made it into the U.S. marketplace, providing a measure of reassurance to consumers.
