Frozen Shrimp Recalled in Connecticut, Northeast Over Radioactive Contamination

This article covers a multi-state recall of frozen raw shrimp that’s now reached Connecticut. We’ll look at which products are affected, why they’re being yanked from shelves, and what shoppers from Hartford to Stamford should actually do to stay safe.

Radioactive Contamination Concerns Behind Shrimp Recall

Federal regulators have issued a warning about a recall involving frozen raw shrimp that might be contaminated with a radioactive substance. The recall impacts shoppers in Connecticut towns both big and small—think Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, Waterbury, Norwalk, Danbury, and New Britain—where these shrimp could have landed on local grocery shelves.

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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says the problem is possible exposure to cesium-137 (Cs-137), a radioactive isotope. This stuff can get into food when products come from tainted environments or pass through sketchy shipping routes.

Who Issued the Recall and What Brands Are Involved?

On December 19, Washington-based Direct Source Seafood announced the recall. They’re pulling about 83,800 bags of frozen raw shrimp from stores across the Northeast.

You might recognize the brands involved:

Market 32

Waterfront Bistro

For Connecticut shoppers, Market 32 shrimp sold at Price Chopper stores is the big concern. These stores serve plenty of towns and cities, from the coast to the hills.

Specific Products Affected in Connecticut

The recall covers several states, but the FDA has zeroed in on what’s on shelves in Connecticut. If you live in Milford, West Hartford, or Middletown and recently bought frozen shrimp, it’s time to double-check those labels.

In Connecticut, here’s what you need to look for:

1-pound bags of Market 32 frozen raw shrimp at Price Chopper

UPC codes starting with 0 41735 or 01358 3

Best-by dates from April 22 to April 27, 2027

Why Cesium-137 Is a Health Concern

The FDA says the shrimp may have been “prepared, packed, or held under insanitary conditions” that could’ve led to Cs-137 contamination. This radioactive byproduct of nuclear fission can show up in soil, water, and foods from polluted places.

Health officials warn that long-term, repeated exposure to Cs-137 in food can raise cancer risk by damaging DNA. One meal isn’t likely to hurt you, but the risk adds up over time, which is why regulators don’t mess around with this stuff.

Source of the Problem: Indonesian Supplier Under Investigation

The FDA is digging into reports that link the contamination to shipping containers and shrimp processed in Indonesia. The shrimp at the heart of this recall came from PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati, an Indonesian company now under federal investigation.

Earlier tests suggested contaminated shrimp hadn’t reached the U.S., but new info led to this large-scale recall. It’s hitting grocery chains that serve folks from New London to Fairfield.

Have There Been Any Illnesses Reported?

So far, federal officials say no illnesses have been reported in connection with this shrimp recall. They’re acting out of caution, not because anyone’s gotten sick yet.

Still, regulators want people to take this recall seriously, especially since radioactive materials can cause health problems that show up years down the road.

What Connecticut Shoppers Should Do Now

If you recently bought frozen raw shrimp at a Price Chopper in Bristol, Enfield, Manchester, or anywhere along I-95, it’s time to check your freezer. Look at the brand, UPC code, and best-by date.

Here’s what you should do:

Don’t eat the recalled shrimp, no matter what.

Return it to the store for a full refund, or

Throw it out in a way that nobody can dig it out of the trash.

If you’ve got questions, call the company’s customer service line on the package or your receipt.

Staying Informed About Future Food Recalls

For folks living anywhere in Connecticut—from the shoreline in Groton and Stratford to more inland spots like Southington—this recall really drives home the need to keep tabs on FDA and store safety alerts.

You can check the FDA’s website or sign up for email alerts from big grocery chains. Watching for recall notices helps families make better choices at the store and at home.

It’s especially true with frozen foods like shrimp, which often hang out in the freezer for ages before anyone remembers they’re there.

Here is the source article for this story: Frozen shrimp recalled in CT, Northeast due to potential radioactive contamination

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