The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced an expansion of a voluntary recall concerning frozen shrimp products that may be contaminated with cesium-137, a radioactive isotope. This recall affects shrimp sold by California-based Southwind Foods under several brand names, including Sand Bar, Arctic Shores, Best Yet, Great American, and First Street.
The potentially hazardous shrimp were distributed to retailers across nine states—Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington—between July 17 and August 8. Consumers are urged to check their freezers for these products as exposure to cesium-137, even in small doses, can increase the risk of cancer.
This recall follows a similar action taken this week for batches of Great Value frozen shrimp sold in 13 states, which were also found to contain the radioactive material. A complete list of the affected shrimp products can be accessed on the FDA's official website.
As the FDA continues to investigate the source of contamination, affected consumers are advised to return the products to the place of purchase for a full refund. This situation underscores the ongoing challenges in food safety and consumer health, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. For related coverage, see recent developments in public health and safety.
