The Swedish Radiation Safety Authority is investigating the radioactivity levels in Swedish fish, 40 years after the Chernobyl disaster. Citizens are encouraged to submit fish samples to assess cesium-137 levels, which have decreased but still pose cancer risks if above the safety threshold.
Call for Action: Submit Your Swedish Fish for Radiation Testing
Call for Action: Submit Your Swedish Fish for Radiation Testing
How radioactive are Swedish fish 40 years after the Chernobyl disaster? The Swedish Radiation Safety Authority aims to find out by collecting fish samples.
"This gives people the chance to fish in their local lakes and understand the specific radiation levels," says Pål Andersson, an investigator at the authority.
After the 1986 disaster, cesium-137 spread to Sweden, affecting areas like northern Uppland, Gävleborg, and Västerbotten.
"Levels have since decreased. In most lakes today, we estimate that values will be below the sale threshold set by the National Food Agency," says Pål Andersson.
The threshold is 1,500 becquerels per kilogram of fresh fish, allowing for safe consumption a few times a week. High levels increase cancer risk.
Last year, the authority conducted a similar survey on mushrooms, receiving around 800 samples, indicating public interest.
"Especially from those who experienced 1986 and still have lingering concerns."