The Food and Drug Administration has expanded a shrimp recall to more than 85,000 bags after tests flagged possible contamination with cesium-137, a radioactive isotope.
The move covers three varieties of cooked shrimp sold under the AquaStar and Kroger labels. The bags were distributed through Kroger-owned chains in 31 states, including large markets like California, Texas, Ohio, and Michigan.
Cesium-137 is a byproduct of nuclear fission. It shows up in medical devices and industrial gauges, but it’s also a remnant of Cold War–era weapons testing. Health officials warn exposure can cause burns, radiation sickness, and over time, raise cancer risks.
The FDA said the recall is precautionary. The affected shrimp were sold between June 12 and Sept. 17 at Kroger stores and subsidiaries such as City Market, Dillons, Baker’s, and Ralphs.
This isn’t the first time shrimp imports have triggered alarms. A batch from Indonesia led to a Walmart recall earlier this summer after inspectors found elevated levels of the same isotope. Federal regulators said they are now working with Customs and Border Protection to stop contaminated seafood before it hits store shelves.
The agency urged consumers to check their freezers and avoid eating the recalled products. More details, including UPC codes and lot numbers, are posted on the FDA’s website.