Arctic Shrimp Recall Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

What’s the Problem?

In August 2025, the FDA posted a recall notice for specific batches of frozen cooked shrimp (marketed at times as “Arctic Shrimp” in error) due to potential contamination with cesium-137—a radioactive element—resulting from non-sanitary handling.

The seafood products were sold in 2-pound bags bearing defined UPCs and lot numbers, and no illnesses had been reported at the time of recall. Nonetheless, the health risk posed by radioactive exposure has prompted consumers to consider legal recourse, especially those facing medical monitoring, psychological stress, or replacement costs.

While there are no active lawsuits against the importer or retailers yet, we are reviewing possible claims for consumers affected by the recall—including those seeking medical testing, emotional support, or reimbursement for affected shrimp purchases.

Latest Arctic Shrimp Updates

• August 28, 2025 – FDA publishes recall for frozen cooked shrimp products due to possible Cs-137 contamination, specifying UPC/lots and advising consumers to stop consumption [1]
• August 29, 2025 – FDA expands its warning network to include broader shrimp supply chains from Indonesia under rotation, reinforcing public health messaging [2]
• August 30, 2025 – National and regional media outline identification tips for impacted shrimp bags and explain the uncertainties around Cs-137’s long-term effects [3]
• September 1, 2025 – Consumer protection groups release recommendations for affected households, including safe disposal protocols and optional voluntary testing offers [4]

Arctic Shrimp Recall Statistics

• Products recalled – Roughly 18,000 bags (2 lbs each) of cooked, peeled tail-off shrimp
• Sales locations – National grocery chains across multiple U.S. states
• Sale window – Late July to early August 2025
• Identifying information – One designated UPC and two lot numbers; best-by dates in November 2027
• Reported illnesses – Zero at the time of announcement

FDA Risk Assessment

The FDA’s advisory clarifies that cesium-137 can cause genetic damage through cumulative exposure, raising concerns about long-term cancer risk. No confirmed Cs-137-related illnesses have been identified, but authorities urge caution, encouraging consumers to discard or return implicated bags and note that the FDA is monitoring the situation closely.

Exposure Risks & Health Considerations

Although no immediate health events were reported, individuals may be exposed to risks that warrant clinical attention, such as:

• Potential long-term exposure requiring consultation with health professionals
• Ongoing uncertainty leading to psychological distress
• Expenses associated with follow-up medical testing or plastic glove usage for food handling

Who May Qualify for an Arctic Shrimp Lawsuit?

• You purchased and retained shrimp matching the recalled UPC and lot codes
• You or someone in your household had shrimp-related concerns requiring medical follow-up
• Such follow-up involved veterinary or medical consultation, testing, or emotional well-being support
• You can document purchasing or product information and incurred costs

Required Evidence

• Photos of packaging with UPC and lot codes included
• Receipts or retailer records confirming purchase date
• Medical or psychological support documentation
• All receipts, invoices, or proofs of cost related to clinical or replacement needs

Recoverable Damages

• Costs tied to medical or psychological evaluation
• Replacement food costs and related consumer expenses
• Compensation for emotional distress caused by contamination anxiety
• Punitive damages for negligent handling if applicable

Recall Details

• Recall date – Late August 2025
• Product – Cooked frozen shrimp in 2 lb bags, identified by UPC and lot
• Hazard – Potential cesium-137 contamination
• Distribution – Multiple supermarket chains in U.S. regions
• Instructions – Do not consume; return or discard safely; contact the retailer/company for refunds

Statute of Limitations

Legal deadlines vary—from one to four years—depending on your state and the nature of your claim. Some extend timelines for minors or latent exposure claims. Early legal consultation is vital to preserve rights and evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How to confirm if my shrimp is affected? – Compare UPC and lot codes to the FDA recall notice.
• What should I do with recalled shrimp? – Do not eat; return or safely discard per recall instructions.
• Has anyone fallen ill? – No illnesses linked as of announcement.
• Is proof of purchase necessary? – Not required for refunds, but helps for legal documentation.
• What kind of losses qualify? – Medical or psychological costs, replacement costs, emotional distress.
• Can I sue if shrimp is already discarded? – Yes, documentation like photos or purchase records may help.

References

1. https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/aquastar-usa-corp-recalls-kroger-mercado-frozen-cooked-shrimp-because-possible-health-risk
2. https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-advises-public-not-eat-sell-or-serve-certain-imported-frozen-shrimp-indonesian-firm
3. https://apnews.com/article/0c1b4f0cccc2289182c96c2679eb4353
4. https://abcnews.go.com/Health/fda-expands-warning-radioactive-shrimp-2-brands-recalled/story?id=125104448