Walmart Shrimp Recall Sparks Food Safety Concerns
Walmart has announced a major shrimp recall in 13 US states after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) flagged potential radioactive contamination. The affected frozen shrimp, sold under Walmart’s Great Value brand, raised concerns when a shipment tested positive for Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope.
How the Contamination Was Discovered
During FDA checks, one sample of breaded shrimp tested positive. Fortunately, officials confirmed this particular shipment never reached store shelves. Still, the agency warned that exposure to Cesium-137, even at low levels over time, can damage living cells and increase long-term cancer risk.
Walmart Responds to the Recall
A Walmart spokesperson emphasized that customer health remains a top priority. The company has already removed the products from affected stores, issued sales restrictions, and assured shoppers of full refunds. Customers who purchased the recalled shrimp are advised to throw it away immediately instead of serving or consuming it.
States Impacted by the Recall
The shrimp recall spans across Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and West Virginia. The supplier, based in Indonesia, has since had multiple shipping containers denied entry into the US.
Understanding the Risks
While FDA experts clarified that the detected radioactive levels were not immediately dangerous, prolonged exposure poses significant health risks. The agency is working closely with Walmart and the supplier to ensure no additional contaminated products reach consumers.
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