Radiological analysis of food products of forest origin in the pollution zone of the Kamin-Kashyrskyi district of the Volyn region of Ukraine

Abstract

The problem of the radiological contamination of food products from secondary forest use remains relevant and requires targeted preventive measures, with the contamination being the result of the Chornobyl nuclear power plant disaster. The research was conducted with the aim of comprehensively monitoring the content of radionuclide $^{137}Cs$ in forest products (Wild Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), Blackberries (Rubus L.), Wild Strawberries (Fragaria vesca L.), Raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.), together with Cantharellus cibarius, Boletus edulis, and Leccinum scabrum mushrooms) of the zone of radioactive contamination of the Kamin-Kashyrskyi district of the Volyn region. Samples were collected in 2020–2022. The total number of samples was 729 dried and 975 fresh mushrooms and berries samples for 2020, 1,154 dried and 886 fresh samples for 2021, and 870 dried and 896 fresh samples for 2022. The results of research indicate that in the specified territory, and at the present moment, forest products are to be found with a significant content of the radionuclide $^{137}Cs$, including those exceeding the permissible levels. There is, therefore, a threat of further internal exposure of the local population via access to procurement points of contaminated products and restaurants. In connection with the detection of these pollutants in forest products in the studied area, further expansion of specialized radioecological monitoring studies and strengthening of radiological control remains relevant.