HONOLULU — The Hawaii Department of Health Food and Drug Branch has issued food alerts to a frozen shrimp recall by Sea Port Products, Corp., and a recall issued by Georgia Nut Company for its Tru-Fru brand Freeze Dried products.
The shrimp, packaged as Sea Port brand Raw Frozen Easy Peel White Shrimp Jumbo Size 16/20, is being recalled because of possible Cesium-137 contamination. The DOH said this is the second Cesium-related recall of frozen shrimp in the past two weeks. Frozen shrimp subject to this recall originated from the same source, but were distributed under a different brand, and by other sellers.
According to the DOH, Cesium-137 was detected in a single shipment of imported frozen shrimp that did not enter U.S. commerce. At this time, no product that has tested positive or alerted for Cesium-137 has entered the marketplace. However, due to insanitary conditions, a recall has been issued for frozen shrimp products originating from the foreign seafood processor.
A small quantity of the recalled product, packaged in 1- and 2-pound bags, was distributed to Hawaii stores. The FDB is working with these stores to ensure that the recalled product is no longer available for sale. The specific Hawaii recalled product carries a “Best by date May 08, 2028” label.
Cesium-137, according to the DOH press release, is a manmade radioisotope of Cesium. Trace amounts of Cesium-137 are widespread, and low levels can be found in the environment. Higher levels may be detected in water and foods grown, raised, or produced in areas with environmental contamination. Long-term, repeated, low-dose exposure to Cesium-137 may result in an elevated risk of cancer.
Georgia Nut Company is a third-party manufacturer for Tru Fru LLC, providing its Tru-Fru brand Freeze Dried products. The recall is being issued due to the potential presence of metal in the product.
The recalled products were distributed nationwide, including retail stores and supermarkets such as Target, Whole Foods, and Walmart in Hawaii.
The recall includes Tru Fru Freeze Dried Strawberries in Dark and White Chocolate, as well as Tru Fru Freeze Dried Strawberries and Creme, packaged in various sizes and lot codes. The FDB is working with these stores to ensure that the recalled product is no longer available for sale.
Hard or sharp foreign objects in food, like metal, may cause traumatic injury, including laceration and perforation of tissues of the mouth, tongue, throat, stomach, and intestine, as well as damage to the teeth and gums. The DOH said there have been no reported cases of injury or illness to date.
The FDB advises consumers to verify if they purchased the recalled products. Consumers should dispose of the product and refrain from consuming it.
Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact their healthcare provider and should call 911 immediately if it is an emergency.
Source: The Garden Island