Vernon-based Lawrence LLC is recalling select Kroger shrimp products due to possible contamination with the radioactive isotope cesium-137 (Cs-137). The shrimp were packed in Indonesia and sold across 31 U.S. states. No related illnesses have been reported so far.
Lawrence Wholesale LLC of Vernon, CA, Recalls Frozen Shrimp Products
On September 23, Lawrence Wholesale LLC of Vernon, CA issued a recall of limited numbers of Kroger bagged frozen shrimp and shrimp cocktail products. The recall comes after a potential Cs-137 contamination, likely linked to unsanitary handling during preparation or packaging was found.
An artificial radioisotope of cesium, Cs-137, is available in traces at background levels in the environment. It can be present in foods that are grown, raised, or produced in contaminated areas or at higher levels in water. A repeated low-dose exposure to Cs-137 results in cancer risks due to DNA damage within the body’s living cells. This occurs through the consumption of contaminated food or water over time.
Product Description
Kroger was selling the bagged frozen shrimp and shrimp cocktail items in 31 states. These include AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, GA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MI, MO, MS, MT, NE, NM, NV, OH, OR, SC, TN, TX, UT, VA, WA, WI, WV, and WY.
The recalled Shrimp Bowl Cooked Shrimp with Cocktail Sauce (7oz) has the following codes:
- UPC 011110622952, Lot Number 11325-H3A1, Best By Date 04/22/2027
- UPC 011110622952, Lot Number 11425-H3A1, Best By Date 04/23/2027
- UPC 011110622952, Lot Number 11525-H3A1, Best By Date 04/24/2027
- UPC 011110622952, Lot Number 11625-H3A1, Best By Date 04/25/2027
The code details for the recalled Shrimp Cocktail with Cocktail Sauce (17oz) product are given below:
- UPC 011110624840, Lot Number 13725-H3A1, Best By Date 05/16/2027
- UPC 011110624840, Lot Number 13825-H3A1, Best By Date 05/17/2027
The codes for the recalled Kroger Cooked Jumbo Tail-On, Peeled & Deveined 16/25 Shrimp are:
- UPC 011110649812, Lot Number 11925-H3A1, Best By Date 04/28/2027
- UPC 011110649812, Lot Number 12025-H3A1, Best By Date 04/29/2027
The description and codes for the recalled Kroger Cooked Medium Tail-On, Peeled & Deveined 51/60 Shrimp are:
- UPC 011110967015, Lot Number 12225-H3A1, Best By Date 05/01/2027
- UPC 011110967015, Lot Number 12325-H3A1, Best By Date 05/02/2027
Steps Taken by the FDA
The FDA is investigating potential Cs-137 contamination in frozen shrimp products and shipping containers from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati in Indonesia. No illnesses have been reported yet.
The FDA is working with distributors and retailers that received shrimp from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati after Customs and Border Protection (CBP) first detected cesium-137. Even shipments that didn’t initially test positive are being recommended for recall.
Consumers should not eat the shrimp and can return the products for a full refund. Consumers with questions about the recall can contact the company at (323) 235-7535, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.
