# Major Recall Alert: Mercado Frozen Cooked Shrimp Recalled Due to Potential Contaminant – cesium-137 (Cs-137)
A recent recall of popular frozen seafood has raised health concerns among consumers nationwide. On August 27, 2025, AquaStar (USA) Corp, based in Seattle, WA, announced the recall of approximately 18,000 bags of Kroger Mercado Frozen Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp (net wt. 2 lbs.) due to potential contamination with cesium-137 (Cs-137). This man-made radioactive isotope can pose significant health risks when consumed over extended periods. Keep reading to learn how this affects you and what steps you can take.
## Why This Recall is Important
Cesium-137 (Cs-137) is a radioactive isotope often associated with environmental contamination. Though background levels exist naturally, higher concentrations in food or water can be hazardous. Prolonged exposure, even in small doses, is linked to long-term health risks such as DNA damage and an increased likelihood of cancer.
Currently, no illnesses related to this recall have been reported. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is investigating potential contamination stemming from shrimp shipments processed by PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods) of Indonesia. Initial findings indicate that some products from this supplier may have been prepared, packed, or stored under unsanitary conditions, making contamination possible.
## Details of the Recall
Consumers who purchased Kroger Mercado Frozen Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp should take note of the following details to determine if their product is part of this recall:
- **Affected Product**: Kroger Mercado Cooked Medium Peeled Tail-Off Shrimp
- **Packaging**: Clear plastic bag with green-striped white label
- **Unit Size**: Net weight of 2 lbs.
- **Distribution Dates**: Sold from July 24, 2025, through August 11, 2025
- **Retail Locations**:
- Baker’s
- Gerbes
- Jay C
- Kroger
- Mariano’s
- Metro Market
- Pay Less Supermarkets
- Pick ‘n Save
States where the shrimp was sold include Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.
While no shrimp currently in U.S. commerce has tested positive for Cs-137, the FDA is working with retailers and distributors to ensure consumer safety.
More details can be found in the official FDA recall notice: [FDA Safety Recall](https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/aquastar-usa-corp-recalls-kroger-mercado-frozen-cooked-shrimp-because-possible-health-risk).
## What You Should Do
If you have purchased Kroger Mercado Frozen Cooked Shrimp with the listed details:
1. **Do Not Consume**: Avoid eating the product under any circumstances.
2. **Dispose of or Return**: Customers can dispose of the product safely or return it to the retailer for a full refund.
3. **Contact for Questions**: If you have additional concerns, contact AquaStar at 1-800-331-3440, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM PST.
Your health is our priority—when in doubt, take action to protect your safety.
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
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