On January 8th, Gusto Ground Inc. announced a recall of Klong Kone Shrimp Paste due to potential lead contamination. The recalled product is packaged in plastic jars with red caps and sold in two sizes:
454 g (1 lbs), UPC: 8853142000313, and Product Code: DPA159
910 g (2lbs), UPC: 8853142000320, and Product Code: DPA161
Why Is This a Concern?
Shrimp paste is a fermented seafood product made with either shrimp or krill.1 It is widely used across various cultures, primarily in Southeast Asia, as a part of main dishes, side dishes, or as a condiment or seasoning. While heavy metals are not inherent to all shrimp pastes, lead can be present in polluted waters and contaminate the raw materials used in these products.1
The product was directly distributed to retailers in Iowa and New Jersey between April and December 2023. While the product was not distributed in Nevada, families in Nevada may still be affected if the product was purchased online, received from out-of-state retailers, or brought in by family and friends. To date, four children with blood lead levels above the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s blood lead reference value of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter.
There is no safe level of exposure to lead. Lead can build up in the body over time, and even small amounts in a child’s body can lead to permanent damage to the central nervous system. This can result in learning disorders, developmental delays, and other long-term health problems. Chronic lead exposure in adulthood is associated with kidney dysfunction, hypertension, and neurocognitive effects. It can also be harmful to pregnant people and their unborn baby.
What Should You Do?
- Do not serve this product.
- Return the product for a full refund.
- Call your healthcare provider if you are concerned about potential lead exposure and ask about a blood lead level test.
- Questions? Contact the company at (862) 264-6774 or at ings@gustofood.com, Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 5 PM ET.
Read the full Recall Announcement here.
Reference
- Nuanphuen P, Homkham N, Areekul V, Ivanovitch K, Norkaew S. Heavy metals contaminant of shrimp paste products and risk assessment in Thailand. Regional Studies in Marine Science. 2023; 67:103195. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rsma.2023.103195. Accessed January 9, 2026.