AquaStar Recalls Raw Shrimp Skewers Over Possible Cesium-137 Contamination

AquaStar recall: quick summary

AquaStar (USA) Corp has recalled its Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers due to possible cesium-137 contamination. About 8,000 bags were sold in Food Lion stores across 10 states between July and September 2025. The recall affects 1.25 lb bags with specific UPCs, lot codes, and “Best If Used By” dates. Authorities have not reported any illnesses, but long-term exposure may increase cancer risk. Consumers must avoid eating the product and should return it for a full refund or dispose of it safely.

What happened?

On September 23, 2025, AquaStar (USA) Corp of Seattle, WA, recalled about 8,000 bags of Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers imported from Indonesia due to possible cesium-137 contamination from insanitary conditions. Food Lion stores in Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia sold the shrimp. Each bag has specific UPC codes, lot numbers, and best-by dates.

Affected products

Brand	Product	Size	UPC	Lot Code	Best By Date	Issue	Affected states
AquaStar	Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers	1.25lb	731149390010	10662 5127 10	11 07 2027	Possible cesium-137 contamination	DE, GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV
AquaStar	Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers	1.25lb	731149390010	10662 5128 11	11 08 2027	Possible cesium-137 contamination	DE, GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, WV

What caused the issue?

Cesium-137 (Cs-137), a man-made radioactive isotope, may have contaminated the shrimp skewers.

• Health risks: Long-term consumption of food contaminated with cesium-137 may increase the risk of cancer by damaging DNA.
• Most at risk: Individuals who consume the contaminated product repeatedly over time.
• Symptoms: No immediate symptoms are linked to small exposures, but cumulative effects can be harmful.
• Confirmed cases: No illnesses have been reported at this time.

Questions you might have

1. Is it safe to eat the recalled shrimp if I cook it?
   No. Cooking does not remove radioactive contamination. Do not eat the product.
2. What if I already ate some shrimp from the recalled product?
   There are no expected immediate symptoms, but you may wish to consult a healthcare provider.
3. How do I check if my bag is affected?
   Look for the UPC, lot code, and best-by date on the back of the packaging.
4. Are all AquaStar products recalled?
   No. Only the Raw Peeled Tail-on Shrimp Skewers with the specified codes are included.
5. Where were the shrimp sold?
   Food Lion stores in 10 states: DE, GA, KY, MD, NC, PA, SC, TN, VA, and WV.
6. What caused the contamination?
   The FDA reported insanitary conditions during preparation, packing, or storage.
7. Do I need my receipt to get a refund?
   No. Stores typically refund recalled products without a receipt.
8. Will I get compensated if I bought these shrimp?
   Yes. A full refund is available.
9. Who can I contact for questions?
   AquaStar customer service is available at 1-800-331-3440 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. PST).
10. Is cesium-137 always present in food?
    Trace amounts exist in the environment, but higher concentrations are considered unsafe.

Here’s what you should do

• Do not eat the recalled shrimp.
• Check the back of the package for UPC, lot codes, and best-by dates.
• If your product matches the recalled codes, discard it safely or return it for a refund.
• Call AquaStar at 1-800-331-3440 for assistance.

Behind the brand

AquaStar (USA) Corp is a Seattle-based seafood importer and distributor, providing shrimp, fish, and frozen seafood products nationwide. The company emphasizes quality and sourcing, but like all suppliers, must uphold strict standards to ensure food safety.

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

“At Source86, food safety is at the heart of everything we do. Staying ahead of recalls through strong supply chain management ensures that consumers and businesses alike can trust the products they bring to their tables.” Eran Mizrahi, CEO of Source86.

Ensuring safe eats

This recall highlights the challenges of maintaining safe food supply chains. Contaminated seafood not only threatens consumer health but also undermines trust in global trade. To prevent these issues, companies must enforce strict sanitation, testing, and oversight throughout production and distribution.

If you purchased this shrimp, do not consume it—return or dispose of it immediately.

At Source86, we are committed to bulk ingredients, private label services, and supply chain excellence. Partner with us to ensure safe, high-quality products for your business and consumers. Contact us!

FAQs

Is cesium-137 exposure always dangerous?
Low levels are found naturally, but consistent exposure to higher levels in food may be harmful.

How fast will I get my refund?
Most refunds are immediate when you return the product to the store.

Will AquaStar products in the future be safe?
Yes. The recall applies only to the identified lot numbers, and future batches will be monitored for safety.