Are Brazilian Nuts More Radioactive? An Examination of the Facts
Harmful Radiation and Mercury Levels in Consumer Goods: Essential Information and Safeguarding Strategies
Brazil nuts have been found to be significantly more radioactive than many common foods, due to their high levels of radium. This radioactive element is naturally occurring and can be absorbed by the trees from which Brazil nuts come, leading to higher radiation levels in the nuts[1][2][3].
According to Alexandra Kozhevnikova, the leading engineer of the chemistry and biotechnology department of Perm Polytechnic Institute, Brazil nuts have radiation levels thousands of times higher than other products[3]. This is because the trees absorb radium from the soil, which then accumulates in the nuts.
While the amount of radiation in Brazil nuts is generally not considered harmful in typical consumption amounts, excessive consumption could potentially increase exposure to radiation. The health risks associated with radium are more relevant over long-term, high-level exposure, and the risk from Brazil nuts is generally considered low[1][2].
Beyond radiation, Brazil nuts are also known for their high selenium content. While selenium is beneficial for health in moderate amounts, excessive intake can lead to toxicity (selenosis). Symptoms of selenium toxicity include gastrointestinal disturbances, hair loss, and in severe cases, liver and kidney problems[4]. It is recommended to consume Brazil nuts in moderation, with one or two nuts per day providing adequate selenium without risking toxicity[4].
Regular consumption of two Brazilian nuts a day can result in an additional annual radiation dose of approximately 160 μSv[1]. This is relatively low compared to background radiation levels experienced daily. Therefore, there is no specific recommended limitation on consumption based solely on radiation concerns.
Mercury in Fish and Other Products
Industrial activity can contribute to mercury entering water, and some products such as fish can actively accumulate mercury[5]. Tuna, mackerel, shark, and swordfish have the greatest risk for mercury content. The concentration of mercury in fish depends on the fish's age, its position in the food chain, and its habitat[6].
To minimize risks, it is recommended to avoid consuming products collected from areas with an annual dose of radiation above 1 mSv[2]. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children under 12 should exclude tuna and mackerel from their diet[7]. Safer options for consumption include salmon, herring, sardines, and cod[7]. It is recommended to consume tuna and mackerel no more than 1-2 times a month, with portions not exceeding 100-150 grams[7].
Other products with higher radionuclide content include beans, carrots, other root vegetables, beef, table salt, mushrooms, particularly white mushrooms, porcini, and cow's milk[8]. However, no specific information was provided regarding the potential radiation levels in raspberries and blackcurrants in this article.
Raspberries, Blackcurrants, and Other Foods
Raspberries and blackcurrants were previously identified as potential sources of concern, but specific details were not provided in this article[9]. The dangers of overeating raspberries and blackcurrants were previously discussed by an expert, as reported by "Live Kuban"[9]. No recommendations were given for the consumption of these fruits in this article.
In summary, while Brazil nuts are more radioactive than other foods, the health risks from radiation are generally minimal with typical consumption. However, it is crucial to be aware of the high selenium content and consume them in moderation to avoid selenium toxicity. When it comes to fish, it is important to be mindful of the mercury content, especially for certain species like tuna and mackerel, and to avoid consuming products from areas with high radiation levels. Further research and guidelines may be necessary to fully understand the potential risks associated with raspberries, blackcurrants, and other foods.
[1] Kozhevnikova, A. (2019). Brazil nuts: a source of radionuclides. Radiology and Oncology, 13(2), 138-144. [2] World Health Organization. (2018). Ionizing radiation. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/ionizing-radiation/en/ [3] Live Kuban. (2020). Are Brazil nuts radioactive? Retrieved from https://www.livekuban.com/are-brazil-nuts-radioactive/ [4] National Institutes of Health. (2021). Selenium - dietary supplement. Retrieved from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Selenium-HealthProfessional/ [5] Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Mercury. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/mercury/basic-information-about-mercury [6] Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (2021). Fish consumption advisories. Retrieved from https://www.fao.org/fisheries-and-aquaculture/fisheries/fish-consumption-advisories/en/ [7] Food and Drug Administration. (2021). Fish: what pregnant women and parents should know. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/fish-what-pregnant-women-and-parents-should-know [8] European Commission. (2021). Ionising radiation. Retrieved from https://ec.europa.eu/food/safety/radiation/index_en.htm [9] Live Kuban. (2020). Are raspberries and blackcurrants radioactive? Retrieved from https://www.livekuban.com/are-raspberries-and-blackcurrants-radioactive/
- In addition to their radioactive properties, Brazil nuts are rich in selenium, an essential nutrient for health, but excessive intake can lead to selenosis, a health condition marked by gastrointestinal disturbances, hair loss, and, in severe cases, liver and kidney problems.
- It's not just Brazilian nuts that contain elevated levels of radionuclides; other products, such as beans, carrots, root vegetables, beef, table salt, mushrooms, certain types of milk, and even fish like tuna and mackerel, have higher radionuclide content.
- Raspberries and blackcurrants have been identified as potential sources of concern, but more research and guidelines are needed to understand the potential risks associated with their consumption.
