FDA Warns of Potential Radioactive Contamination in Walmart Shrimp

Cesium-137 Detected in Imported Shrimp Raises Health and Legal Concerns Across the United States

On August 20, 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a public warning regarding frozen raw shrimp sold under Walmart’s Great Value brand. The alert was prompted by the discovery of Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive isotope, in a shipment processed by the Indonesian seafood company PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati. Although the FDA stated that the specific contaminated shipment never entered U.S. commerce, the agency recommended Walmart recall three lots of shrimp out of caution.

This warning highlights a broader issue: when imported food products are exposed to radioactive materials or other dangerous contaminants, consumers face long-term health risks, and corporations may be held accountable for selling unsafe goods. For families across the United States, the safety of food supply chains and transparency in recalls are of paramount importance.

What is Cesium-137 and Why is it Dangerous?

Cesium-137 is a radioactive isotope produced during nuclear fission. It is one of the byproducts of nuclear power plant operations and nuclear weapons testing. Because of its relatively long half-life of about 30 years, Cesium-137 can persist in the environment for decades, contaminating soil, water, and food supplies.

The primary concern with Cs-137 is that, once ingested, it behaves similarly to potassium in the human body, meaning it can be absorbed into soft tissue and organs. Long-term exposure, even at low levels, increases the risk of cancer and can cause other systemic health problems.

While the FDA noted that the detected levels in this case would not pose an acute, immediate health risk, repeated or extended consumption of contaminated shrimp could accumulate in the body over time. This cumulative effect makes contamination particularly concerning when food distribution spans large geographic areas.

The FDA’s Findings and Recall Recommendation

According to the FDA’s notice, testing of one shipment of shrimp revealed detectable amounts of Cesium-137. Although this particular shipment did not enter U.S. commerce, the FDA urged Walmart to recall three lots of the affected Great Value brand frozen raw shrimp. The lots in question were distributed in 13 states.

The FDA emphasized that no contaminated shrimp has been confirmed as sold to consumers. However, the agency is investigating whether other shipments may have been exposed during processing or transportation. Because of this uncertainty, the recall recommendation is seen as a protective measure.

This situation demonstrates the FDA’s increased focus on proactive recall strategies. By issuing early warnings, the agency aims to limit exposure before products reach consumers, even when contamination risks are considered “low but concerning.”

Walmart and the Supplier’s Role in Food Safety

The shrimp in question was processed by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati is an Indonesian seafood company. Imported seafood makes up a significant percentage of the shrimp sold in the United States, raising questions about quality control measures in overseas facilities.

Walmart, as one of the largest grocery retailers in the country, has a responsibility to ensure its supply chains are safe and transparent. Even though the contaminated shipment reportedly did not enter the market, the potential for exposure underscores how vital it is for corporations to rigorously test imports before they reach store shelves.

Failure to adequately monitor or disclose contamination risks may open the door to legal action. If contaminated shrimp had reached consumers and caused harm, both the supplier and Walmart could face liability for selling a product unfit for human consumption.

Health Risks Associated with Radioactive Contamination in Food

The health risks tied to Cesium-137 exposure depend on the dose and duration of ingestion. Possible consequences include:

• Cancer Risk: Long-term exposure increases the likelihood of developing certain cancers, particularly of the liver and other soft tissues.
• Immune System Damage: Radioactive isotopes can weaken the immune system, leaving individuals more vulnerable to illness.
• Organ Damage: Cs-137 can accumulate in muscles and vital organs, leading to long-term cellular damage.
• Reproductive Health Issues: Studies of populations exposed to Cs-137 after nuclear accidents have shown potential effects on reproductive health and birth outcomes.

Even if a single exposure does not cause immediate illness, repeated consumption of contaminated food could pose serious risks over years. That is why recalls, even when precautionary, play such a critical role in protecting public health.

Consumer Rights and Legal Implications

When potentially contaminated food products are sold in the United States, consumers have the right to expect transparency and accountability from both manufacturers and retailers. Legal claims may arise under several areas of law:

• Product Liability: If a contaminated product reaches consumers, claims can allege that the product was defective due to unsafe levels of hazardous material.
• Negligence: Corporations that fail to adequately test or warn consumers may be found negligent if their actions lead to harm.
• Consumer Protection Laws: Selling food that poses health risks may violate federal and state consumer protection statutes.
• Wrongful Death and Injury Claims: If contamination leads to illness or death, affected families may seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Even though the FDA reported that no contaminated shrimp had entered U.S. commerce, the seriousness of this warning underscores how easily a breakdown in supply chain monitoring could harm consumers nationwide.

The Importance of Food Safety Oversight

The FDA’s role is to safeguard the U.S. food supply by monitoring imports and conducting testing for contaminants, including heavy metals, pesticides, and radioactive isotopes. This case reflects the agency’s ongoing efforts to identify risks early and prevent exposure.

For consumers, it is important to understand that recalls are not admissions of immediate danger but are instead precautionary actions designed to ensure safety. However, recalls also highlight gaps in the global supply chain that can leave Americans vulnerable.

By issuing an early warning about the Walmart shrimp, the FDA demonstrated the value of proactive oversight. At the same time, it raises larger questions about whether corporations like Walmart are taking sufficient measures to independently test products before selling them.

FAQs About Walmart Shrimp Contamination Lawsuits

1. What was found in the Walmart shrimp? The FDA detected Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope, in one shipment of Great Value frozen raw shrimp processed by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, an Indonesian supplier. Although the shipment was not sold, the FDA recommended that Walmart recall additional lots out of caution.
2. Is the shrimp currently being sold dangerous? The FDA stated that no contaminated shrimp was confirmed as sold. However, because other shipments may have been exposed, a recall was recommended. If consumed regularly over time, shrimp contaminated with Cesium-137 could increase cancer risks and cause other health issues.
3. Can consumers file lawsuits even if they haven’t gotten sick yet? Yes. In some cases, lawsuits may be filed based on the risk of exposure, emotional distress, or the costs of medical monitoring. If someone consumed recalled shrimp and now faces fear of health consequences, legal options may exist.
4. What legal claims might apply in this situation? Potential claims include product liability for selling unsafe food, negligence for failing to ensure safe supply chains, and consumer protection violations. If illness or death results, wrongful death or personal injury claims may be pursued.
5. How do I know if I bought contaminated shrimp? Consumers should check the lot numbers included in the recall. If shrimp was purchased during the affected period in one of the 13 states identified by the FDA, it is important to verify whether the product was included in the recall notice.
6. What compensation could I receive in a lawsuit? Compensation may include medical costs, ongoing health monitoring, lost wages, and damages for pain, suffering, or wrongful death. Class action lawsuits may also be possible if a large number of consumers were affected.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you or a loved one purchased or consumed Walmart Great Value frozen shrimp and are concerned about possible exposure to radioactive contamination, you may have legal rights. Parker Waichman LLP is a national law firm actively investigating claims related to this FDA warning.

Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our attorneys will review your situation, explain your legal options, and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.