Washington, D.C., USA- January 13, 2020: FDA Sign at its headquarters in Washington DC. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA or USFDA) is a federal agency of the USA.
September 21, 2025 — If shrimp is featured on your dinner table, it’s essential to inspect your freezer. Aquastar (USA) Corp has launched a significant recall of various shrimp products marketed under the Kroger, Kroger Mercado, and AquaStar labels due to possible contamination with Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope that can lead to severe long-term health issues.
The recall, which was made public on September 20, impacts over 85,000 bags of frozen shrimp distributed in stores throughout more than 35 states. These products might have been processed in unsanitary conditions, heightening the risk of radionuclide contamination.
What Products Are Affected?
The following items are included in the recall:
Kroger Raw Colossal EZ Peel Shrimp (2 lbs)
- UPC: 20011110643906
- Best if used by: Dates from March 26, 2027 to April 24, 2027
- Sold in a clear bag with a blue band and yellow/red details
Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp (2 lbs)
- UPC: 011110626196
- Best before: October 22–23, 2027
- Sold in a clear bag with green-striped white label
- AquaStar Raw Peeled Tail-On Shrimp Skewers (1.25 lbs)
- UPC: 731149390010
- Best if used by: November 7–15, 2027
- Sold in printed bags with black tops and blue bottoms
Where Was It Sold?
The shrimp was sold in Kroger family stores including:
- Fred Meyer, Ralphs, Smith’s, Food 4 Less, QFC, King Soopers, Mariano’s, and others
- Across states like California, Texas, Florida, Ohio, Washington, Georgia, Illinois, Arizona, and many more
- Retailers began selling the affected items between June 12 and September 17, 2025.
What Is Cesium-137 and Why Is It Dangerous?
Cesium-137 (Cs-137) is a man-made radioactive isotope often found in areas exposed to nuclear testing or industrial waste. According to the FDA, prolonged exposure—even at low levels—may damage DNA and increase cancer risk. It can enter the body through food, water, or inhalation.
While the FDA notes that no contaminated shrimp has been confirmed in U.S. commerce, the affected products were flagged because they may have been processed by an Indonesian facility—PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods)—linked to recent contamination reports.
What You Should Do
- Do NOT eat the recalled shrimp.
- Dispose of it immediately or return it to the store for a full refund.
- If you’re unsure whether your shrimp is affected, check the UPC code and lot number on the packaging.
- For questions, contact Aquastar Corp at: 1-800-331-3440 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm PST)
FDA and Retailer Response
The FDA is investigating potential exposure pathways and working with retailers and importers to prevent further contaminated products from reaching store shelves. While no illnesses or radiation-related incidents have been reported, the agency is treating the matter seriously due to the health risks associated with Cesium-137.
This recall is being conducted with the knowledge and cooperation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Bottom Line: Check Your Freezer
If you’ve purchased shrimp from any Kroger-affiliated store in the last few months, take a moment to review the packaging. Better safe than radioactive.
