Radioactive Shrimps? Walmart Initiates Recall in 13 US States

A discovery of radioactive material in shrimp has triggered a widespread product recall in the USA.

The US health authority FDA has warned against consuming certain frozen shrimp of the "Great Value" brand, which were available at Walmart. Radioactive cesium-137 was detected in a shipping container from Indonesia – an isotope that is produced by nuclear reactions and is considered carcinogenic.

Shrimp Originated from Indonesian Supplier

According to the FDA, the affected shrimp come from an Indonesian supplier. During a routine inspection, cesium-137 was detected in one of the containers. Although this sample was withdrawn from circulation and did not reach the market, a preventive recall of several product batches was initiated.

Walmart branches in 13 US states are affected: including Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Customers are urged to dispose of or return recently purchased frozen shrimp to a branch. The purchase price will be fully refunded, according to the company.

Health Risk with Prolonged Exposure

According to the FDA, the radiation exposure measured in the sample is not acutely dangerous. However, long-term intake of cesium-137 can increase the risk of cancer, as the radiation can damage living cells. The authority emphasizes that no residues were detected in further samples – contamination cannot be completely ruled out.

Walmart announced that it will work closely with the affected supplier. "The health and safety of our customers is our top priority," it said in a statement.

Cesium-137 – Known from Reactor Disasters

Cesium-137 occurs worldwide in small amounts in air, soil, and food. The isotope became particularly known through the Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters, where it spread widely in the environment. It has no place in food due to its radioactivity.

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.