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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has expanded its recall of shrimp products due to potential contamination with the radioactive material cesium-137 (Cs-137). The recall now includes two additional products from Seattle-based Aquastar Corp: around 26,460 packages of cocktail shrimp and approximately 18,000 bags of Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp. The affected cocktail shrimp was sold in Walmart stores across 27 states between July 31 and August 16, while the Kroger shrimp was sold in various stores across 17 states, including Baker’s, Gerbes, and Jay C.
The FDA has advised consumers to dispose of or return the affected products for a refund. Although no illnesses have been reported, the agency warns that long-term exposure to Cs-137 can increase the risk of cancer. The contamination originated from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, an Indonesian firm now on the FDA's "red list," preventing its products from entering the U.S. until the issue is resolved.
Consumers are urged to check for specific UPC and lot codes on the packaging to identify the recalled products. The FDA's investigation is ongoing, and they continue to monitor the situation closely.