AquaStar Recalls Frozen Shrimp Over Possible Cesium-137 Exposure

AquaStar recall: quick summary

AquaStar (USA) Corp has issued a voluntary recall of select frozen shrimp products due to potential exposure to low levels of cesium-137 (Cs-137). Tests have not confirmed contamination, and no illnesses have occurred. AquaStar (USA) Corp is conducting this recall as a precaution with FDA oversight. The company imported the affected products from Indonesia and sold them under the AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro, and Publix brands. Consumers should avoid eating the products and return them to the place of purchase for a refund. Contact information is provided for questions or concerns regarding the recall.

What happened?

AquaStar (USA) Corp voluntarily recalled frozen shrimp on October 17, 2025, imported from Indonesia. The company may have exposed the products, sold under AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro, and Publix brands, to very low levels of Cs-137. Tests have not detected contamination, and no illnesses have occurred. The company distributed the shrimp across multiple U.S. states.

Affected Products

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Best By Date	Issue	Affected States/Zones
AquaStar	Frozen Raw Shrimp	Varies	Varies	Varies	Possible Cs-137 exposure	Multiple states, U.S.
Best Yet	Frozen Raw Shrimp	Varies	Varies	Varies	Possible Cs-137 exposure	Multiple states, U.S.
Waterfront Bistro	Frozen Raw Shrimp	Varies	Varies	Varies	Possible Cs-137 exposure	Multiple states, U.S.
Publix	Frozen Raw Shrimp	Varies	Varies	Varies	Possible Cs-137 exposure	Multiple states, U.S.

What caused the issue?

The recall was issued due to potential exposure to cesium-137 (Cs-137). While no contaminated products have been confirmed, Cs-137 is a man-made radioactive isotope that can pose health risks if ingested in significant amounts. Vulnerable groups, such as children, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, may be at higher risk. Symptoms of exposure are generally associated with high levels of radiation and include nausea, fatigue, and vomiting. No victims have been reported to date.

Questions you might have

1. What is cesium-137?
   Cs-137 is a man-made radioactive isotope. Traces are naturally widespread in the environment.
2. Has any product tested positive?
   No, none of the recalled shrimp have tested positive for Cs-137.
3. Have there been any illnesses?
   No illnesses have been reported.
4. Which brands are affected?
   AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro, and Publix.
5. Where were the shrimp imported from?
   Indonesia.
6. How can I check if my product is affected?
   Check the label for brand, size, UPC, and best by date.
7. What should I do if I have affected shrimp?
   Do not consume; return it to the store or dispose of it safely.
8. Who should I contact for questions?
   AquaStar at 1-800-331-3440.
9. Is the recall mandatory?
   It is a voluntary recall conducted with FDA guidance.
10. Where can I find more information?
    Visit the FDA recall page.

Here’s what you should do

• Do not consume the affected frozen shrimp.
• Check labels for brand, size, UPC, and best by date.
• Return the product to the store for a full refund or dispose of it safely.
• Contact AquaStar at 1-800-331-3440 for questions.

Behind the brand

AquaStar (USA) Corp, based in Seattle, WA, specializes in seafood distribution and imports frozen shrimp from Indonesia. The company works closely with the FDA to ensure the safety and quality of its products.

Other relevant recalls

• Aquastar recalls Kroger Mercado frozen cooked shrimp over Cesium-137 contamination
• Aquastar recalls cocktail 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
• Kroger recalls frozen shrimp products due to possible Cesium-137 contamination
• Aquastar recalls Kroger shrimp products over possible Cesium-137 contamination

“Food safety requires constant vigilance. Consumers must pay attention to recalls, and brands must maintain excellence across the supply chain.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.

Ensuring safe eats

Recalls like this highlight the importance of strict safety protocols in the seafood industry. Preventing contamination protects consumers and strengthens trust in brands. Companies must act quickly to investigate and address any potential risks. Consumers should always follow guidance to return or dispose of affected products.

For high-quality, safe ingredients, consult our team at Source86 for bulk ingredients and private label services with a focus on food safety and supply chain excellence.

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