AquaStar Shrimp Recall: FDA Warning for Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro & Publix

Urgent consumer notice: AquaStar (USA) Corp. has voluntarily recalled specific lots of frozen raw shrimp distributed under the AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro and Publix brands because of potential exposure to cesium-137 (Cs-137). Review the recall details below and follow the refund or disposal steps right away.

AquaStar Shrimp Recall Overview

• Brands: AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro, Publix
• Product type: Frozen raw shrimp (product of Indonesia)
• Announcement date: October 17, 2023
• Reason for recall: The shrimp may have been processed under conditions that could introduce very low levels of Cs-137.
• Health impact: No shrimp tested positive and no illnesses have been reported; the recall is strictly precautionary.
• Consumer action: Do not eat the shrimp. Dispose of it safely or return it to the store for a full refund.
• Contact: AquaStar Customer Care – 1-800-331-3440

Sources

• FDA Recall Announcement
• Official Recall Notice (PDF)
• FDA Outbreak Advisory

Why Cesium-137 Matters

Cesium-137 is a man-made radioactive isotope produced during nuclear fission. While background levels exist in the environment, elevated amounts in food can increase long-term cancer risk. Although the recalled shrimp did not test positive, AquaStar initiated the recall to remove any theoretical exposure risk.

Refund & Safe Disposal Steps

1. Check your freezer for AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro or Publix frozen raw shrimp labeled “Product of Indonesia.”
2. Place the unopened or partially used product in a sealed bag before discarding, or return it to the retailer.
3. Bring proof of purchase if available. Retailers have been instructed to provide full refunds with or without a receipt.
4. For additional questions, call AquaStar Customer Care at 1-800-331-3440.

Lot Codes & UPC Guidance

The FDA notice did not list specific lot numbers or UPCs. Treat any of the four brand-name packages that specify “Product of Indonesia” as recalled.

Official Images from the Recall

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which AquaStar products are recalled?

Only frozen raw shrimp sold under the AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro and Publix brands and labeled as a product of Indonesia are affected.

2. How can I confirm my Best Yet shrimp is included?

If the package indicates “Product of Indonesia,” dispose of it or return it for a refund. No specific lot codes were released.

3. Is cooking Waterfront Bistro shrimp enough to make it safe?

No. Heat does not neutralize radioactive isotopes. The FDA and AquaStar advise consumers not to eat the product.

4. I ate Publix frozen shrimp recently—should I worry?

No illnesses have been reported and none of the shrimp tested positive for Cs-137. Contact your healthcare provider if you have health concerns.

5. Will I get a full refund for AquaStar shrimp without a receipt?

Yes. Retailers have been instructed to honor refunds even without a receipt. Take the product packaging or a photo of it if possible.

6. Can restaurants still serve AquaStar shrimp that may be recalled?

No. Food-service establishments should immediately stop using and discard or return any affected AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro or Publix shrimp products.

7. How long will AquaStar accept refund requests for the recalled shrimp?

The company has not set an end date; consumers can seek refunds for AquaStar, Best Yet, Waterfront Bistro or Publix shrimp until further notice.

All details above are sourced directly from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s public recall notice dated October 17, 2023.