Cesium-137 in Shrimp: Understanding Your Rights to Compensation After the Recall

In recent months, a concerning issue has emerged in the food supply chain: the contamination of shrimp with Cesium-137, a radioactive isotope. This has led to recalls of shrimp products across multiple states, leaving consumers worried about potential health risks and unsure of their legal rights. If you’ve purchased or consumed shrimp potentially contaminated with Cesium-137, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to seek compensation for any harm you may have suffered.

What is Cesium-137 and Why is it in Shrimp?

Cesium-137 (Cs-137) is a radioactive isotope produced by nuclear fission. It’s not naturally found in the environment but is a byproduct of nuclear reactors, nuclear weapons testing, and industrial processes. While small amounts of Cs-137 are used in medical devices and industrial gauges, its presence in food products like shrimp is alarming.

The recent recalls of shrimp contaminated with Cesium-137 have been linked to a specific Indonesian seafood processor, PT. Bahari Makmur Sejati (BMS Foods). Investigations suggest the contamination may have originated from a stainless steel smelter in Indonesia, with the radioactive material potentially spreading through airborne particles or contaminated water.

Health Risks Associated with Cesium-137 Exposure

Exposure to Cs-137 can increase the risk of cancer due to the emission of high-energy gamma radiation. Internal exposure, through ingestion or inhalation, allows the radioactive material to distribute throughout the body’s soft tissues, especially muscle tissue, further elevating cancer risk. Large amounts of Cs-137 can cause burns and acute radiation sickness. Symptoms of acute radiation syndrome include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, skin and ocular lesions, neurological signs, compromised immune function, and in severe cases, death.

Even low-level exposure to Cs-137 over time can pose a health concern, potentially leading to DNA damage and an increased risk of cancer. This is why regulatory agencies like the FDA take swift action to recall products that may be contaminated, even if the detected levels are below their “levels of concern.”

Understanding Your Legal Rights

If you have purchased or consumed shrimp that was part of a recall due to Cesium-137 contamination, you may have legal recourse. U.S. consumers have the right to expect that imported food products are safe for consumption. When radioactive contamination occurs, legal action can be a path to accountability and compensation.

Potential legal claims include:

Product Liability: You can file a claim against the seafood processor and U.S. distributors for placing a contaminated product into the marketplace.
Negligence: If the seafood processor or distributor failed to adequately screen or test the shrimp before distribution, they may be found negligent.
Failure to Warn: Retailers have a responsibility to warn consumers about potential hazards. If they sold contaminated shrimp after the recall was announced, they could be liable for damages.

What Compensation Can You Seek?

If you’ve been affected by radioactive shrimp, you may be eligible for damages related to:

Medical Expenses: Compensation for any medical treatment you require as a result of exposure to Cesium-137.
Future Medical Care: Funds to cover ongoing monitoring and treatment for potential long-term health effects.
Lost Wages: If your health issues cause you to miss work, you can seek compensation for lost income.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional distress caused by the contamination.
Other Losses: This may include compensation for the cost of the contaminated shrimp, as well as other related expenses.

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Affected

Seek Medical Attention: If you have consumed recalled shrimp and are experiencing any unusual symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
Document Everything: Keep records of your purchases, medical treatments, and any communication with retailers or manufacturers.
Preserve the Evidence: If you still have the shrimp in your possession, do not throw it away. Store it in a freezer.
Consult with a Lawyer: An experienced food poisoning lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue compensation.

The Role of Regulatory Agencies

The FDA and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) play a crucial role in monitoring imported food products and preventing contaminated goods from entering the U.S. market. The FDA is actively investigating reports of Cesium-137 contamination in shrimp products from Indonesia and is working with Indonesian seafood regulatory authorities to identify the source of the contamination.

The FDA also issued an import alert to prevent further shipments of contaminated shrimp from entering the U.S. until the Indonesian processor resolves the conditions that led to the contamination.

Current Status of the Recall

As of December 2025, the FDA has expanded its warning about shrimp products contaminated with cesium-137. The latest recall involves approximately 85,000 bags of raw and cooked shrimp sold under various brands and distributed across numerous states.

Moving Forward: Ensuring Food Safety

The Cesium-137 contamination in shrimp highlights the importance of robust food safety measures and strict oversight of imported products. Consumers need to stay informed about food recalls and take necessary precautions to protect their health.

Have You Been Affected by Radioactive Shrimp?

The discovery of Cesium-137 in shrimp is a serious concern, and those affected have the right to seek compensation for any damages they may have suffered. If you or a loved one has purchased or consumed recalled shrimp, it is important to understand your legal rights and take appropriate action. Contacting a personal injury attorney specializing in food contamination cases can provide you with the guidance and support you need to navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you deserve.