Southwind Foods, LLC, based in Carson, California, has announced a voluntary recall of certain frozen shrimp products due to concerns over possible contamination with Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive isotope. The affected products were distributed between July 17 and August 8, 2025, reaching retailers, distributors, and wholesalers in Alabama, Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington state.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is conducting an investigation into reports of Cs-137 contamination found in shipping containers and frozen shrimp processed by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) of Indonesia. According to the FDA's ongoing inquiry here, there have been no reported illnesses linked to the recalled shrimp at this time.
Cesium-137 is a man-made radioactive element that can be present at low levels in the environment but may reach higher concentrations in areas affected by environmental contamination. Prolonged or repeated exposure to low doses—such as through consuming contaminated food or water—can increase cancer risk due to DNA damage.
Consumers who purchased the recalled frozen shrimp are advised not to eat it. They should dispose of it or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Questions can be directed to Southwind Foods at 1-323-262-8222 during business hours from Monday through Friday.
"Consumers who have purchased the recall frozen shrimp should not consume the product and should dispose of the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 1-323-262-8222 Monday-Friday during normal business hours (8am-4pm Pacific Time)."
