Radioactive Shrimp? What Science Says About the [Walmart Shrimp Recall]

Introduction

In August 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned the public about certain batches of Great Value frozen shrimp sold at Walmart that tested positive for Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive element. The news quickly sparked online debate and even memes, with “radioactive shrimp Walmart” becoming a trending search term.

But what does it really mean if shrimp contains traces of radioactivity? How dangerous is it, and what should you do if you’ve already eaten it? Let’s unpack the science.

What Is Cesium-137?

Cesium-137 is a byproduct of nuclear fission, often released during nuclear accidents or weapons testing. It emits beta particles and gamma radiation, both of which can damage cells and DNA if ingested or inhaled in significant amounts.

• Half-life: About 30 years, meaning it lingers in the environment for decades.
• Path in the body: When consumed, Cs-137 behaves like potassium, spreading through soft tissues such as muscles.
• Health risks: Long-term exposure increases the risk of cancer.
  

How Did Radioactive Shrimp End Up in Stores?

The shrimp in question came from an Indonesian supplier. According to FDA testing, one shipping container showed levels of 68 Bq/kg of Cs-137.

For comparison:

• FDA’s intervention level is 1,200 Bq/kg.
• Natural background radiation from food (like bananas, which contain potassium-40) is typically much lower but still measurable.

So while the levels detected are far below the danger threshold, the FDA is acting with caution to prevent any unnecessary exposure.

If You Already Ate the Shrimp

Don’t panic – Eating a small amount is very unlikely to cause harm. The radiation levels are too low for acute effects.

Pay attention to your health – If you feel unwell or notice persistent symptoms, contact a doctor.

Let your doctor know – Mention the possibility of exposure so they can advise whether any testing is needed.

Remember the long-term context – Occasional low-level exposure is less concerning than repeated or high-dose exposure.

How to Handle the Shrimp at Home？

• Check your packaging:
  • Brand: Great Value Raw Shrimp, Peeled and Deveined, Tail-On
  • Lot codes: 8005540-1, 8005538-1, 8005539-1
  • Best-by date: March 15, 2027
• Do not eat or cook it: Heat does not remove radiation.
• Dispose safely: Keep it sealed and put it in your trash, or return it to Walmart for a refund.
• Do not share it with pets or neighbors.

Why This Matters?

Food recalls for bacteria like Salmonella or Listeria are common. Radiation recalls are rare—and understandably alarming. But context is key: the shrimp recall is precautionary, not a sign of widespread radioactive contamination in the U.S. food supply.

Radiation exists all around us—in soil, water, the air, and even inside our bodies. The difference lies in dose and duration. Occasional low-level exposure, like in this shrimp case, is not a medical emergency, but regulators act quickly to prevent unnecessary risks.

Bottom Line

If you bought shrimp from the affected Walmart batches, don’t eat it. Either return it or throw it away. If you already ate some, you are unlikely to face serious health effects, but stay informed and speak to your doctor if you have concerns.

Science tells us that while “radioactive shrimp” makes for an alarming headline, the actual health risk from this recall is low. The FDA’s proactive warning is a reminder that strong food safety systems are in place to protect consumers—even when the risk is more about long-term precaution than immediate danger.

 References

1.Food and Drug Administration. (2025, August 20). FDA advises public not to eat, sell, or serve certain imported frozen shrimp from Indonesian firm. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-public-not-eat-sell-or-serve-certain-imported-frozen-shrimp-indonesian-firm?utm_source=chatgpt.com

2.Hernandez, J. (2025, August 20). FDA urges recall of Walmart shrimp over radioactive contamination fear. The Washington Post.  Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/08/20/walmart-radioactive-shrimp-recall-fda/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

3.Kim, J. (2025, August 20). Raw shrimp sold at Walmart recalled for possible radioactivity. People. Retrieved from https://people.com/raw-shrimp-sold-at-walmart-recalled-for-possible-radioactivity-11793763?utm_source=chatgpt.com

4.Lemonick, M. D. (2025, August 21). Do not eat the radioactive shrimp!. Popular Mechanics. Retrieved from https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/health/a65832293/radioactive-shrimp/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

5.World Health Organization. (2016). Ionizing radiation, health effects and protective measures. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/ionizing-radiation-health-effects-and-protective-measures

6.International Atomic Energy Agency. (2010). Cesium-137 in the environment: Radioecological monitoring and countermeasures. International Atomic Energy Agency. Retrieved from https://www.iaea.org/resources/rpop/health-effects/cesium-137