Aquastar recall: quick summary
AquaStar (USA) Corp has recalled 26,460 packages of its Cocktail Shrimp 6oz, sold exclusively at Walmart, due to potential contamination with cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive isotope. The affected shrimp were distributed across 27 states, including Texas, Ohio, and Washington, and came packaged in clear plastic trays with a red and white label marked with UPC 19434612191. While no illnesses have been reported to date, consumers are strongly advised not to eat the shrimp.
Official details
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Date issued: August 28, 2025
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Announced by: FDA
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Company name: Aquastar (USA) Corp
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Product name: Aqua Star Cocktail Shrimp 6oz
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Issue: Potential contamination with cesium-137 (Cs-137)
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Product details: Sold only at Walmart stores across 27 states, UPC 19434612191, various lot codes
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What to do: Do not eat. Dispose of it or return it for a refund.
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Call to action: Stick around to find out more about this recall. Shall we learn more about this?
What happened?
On August 28, 2025, Aquastar (USA) Corp announced a recall of Cocktail Shrimp 6oz, imported from Indonesia. The recall covers over 26,000 packages sold at Walmart stores between July 31 and August 16, 2025. During a routine check, the shrimp raised a radioactive red flag (literally) when testing suggested possible contamination with cesium-137.
Affected products
Brand | Product | Size | UPC | Best By Date | Issue | States sold |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Aqua Star | Cocktail Shrimp | 6oz | 19434612191 | Various | Cesium-137 contamination | 27 states (AK, AL, AR, CO, GA, IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MN, MO, MS, MT, ND, NE, OH, OK, OR, SD, TN, TX, WA, WI) |
What caused the issue?
The culprit? Cesium-137, a man-made radioactive isotope. Think of it as the unwanted party crasher from the Cold War that nobody invited to dinner. Long-term exposure can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer.
- Health risks: Potential cancer over repeated low-dose exposure.
- Who’s most at risk: Everyone (sorry, shrimp lovers).
- Symptoms: Not immediate. This is a long-term health risk.
- Victims confirmed: None reported.
Questions you might have
- Why is cesium-137 dangerous?
Because it’s a radioactive isotope that can damage DNA over time, increasing the risk of cancer. - How do I know if my shrimp is affected?
Check for UPC 19434612191 and the listed lot codes. - Is cesium-137 always in shrimp?
No, this is an out-of-the-ordinary contamination. - Were the shrimp cooked?
Yes, but radioactive isotopes don’t care about boiling water. - What if I already ate some?
Don’t panic. Contact a healthcare provider if you’re worried. - Is it safe to feed my cat/dog these shrimp?
Absolutely not. Pets are family, too. - Can I return the shrimp for a refund?
Yes. Walmart will give you a full refund. - Are other AquaStar products affected?
Only the Cocktail Shrimp 6oz is in this recall. - How long does cesium-137 last?
Decades. Don’t risk it. - Is this recall nationwide?
No, it’s limited to 27 states where Walmart distributed the product.
Here’s what you should do
- Do not consume the recalled shrimp.
- Look for the UPC 19434612191 and the following lot codes: 10662 5106, 10662 5107, 10662 5124, and 10662 5125.
- Identify packaging: clear plastic tray, red and white label, refrigerated product.
- Contact AquaStar at 1-800-331-3440 (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PST).
Behind the brand
Aquastar (USA) Corp, headquartered in Seattle, WA, imports and distributes seafood products across the U.S. Their portfolio includes shrimp, salmon, and other frozen and packaged seafood offerings.
Other relevant recalls
- Aquastar recalls Kroger Mercado frozen cooked shrimp over Cesium-137 contamination
- Beaver Street Fisheries recalls Great Value frozen raw shrimp over Cesium-137 contamination risk
- Southwind Foods recalls frozen shrimp over Cesium-137 risk
- FDA public health alert: Great Value frozen shrimp linked to Cesium-137 contamination concerns
- Country Eggs recalls Sunshine Yolks over Salmonella scare
- Taylor Farms recalls Honey Balsamic Salad Kit over undeclared sesame and soy
“Food safety is non-negotiable. Recalls are reminders of the importance of vigilance in supply chain excellence. At Source86, we’re committed to helping brands and retailers maintain the highest safety standards.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86
Ensuring safe eats
Radioactive shrimp may sound like the plot of a sci-fi movie, but this recall highlights a serious industry issue: supply chain safety. Contamination scares hurt both consumers and trust in brands. To prevent them, companies must enforce strict testing, sanitation, and quality control.
If you bought this shrimp, don’t eat it, toss it, or return it.
Want a safer seafood story? Contact us at Source86. We specialize in bulk ingredients, private label solutions, food safety, and supply chain excellence, so your product doesn’t end up glowing in headlines.
