MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

A Review of the Occurrence of Alpha-Emitting Radionuclides in Wild Mushrooms

Summary

Wild mushrooms can absorb radioactive elements from soil, particularly polonium and radium which accumulate to high levels. The amount of radioactivity varies greatly depending on where mushrooms are grown and what species they are. In most areas, naturally occurring radioactive elements are the main concern, but mushrooms from regions affected by nuclear accidents like Chernobyl may contain dangerous artificial radioactive isotopes. People who frequently consume wild mushrooms from certain regions could potentially exceed safe annual radiation exposure limits.

Background

Alpha-emitting radionuclides are among the most toxic forms of radiation to human health. Mushrooms are efficient bioaccumulators of radioactive elements from soil and the environment. Understanding the occurrence and concentration of alpha emitters in wild mushrooms is important for assessing food safety and human health risks.

Objective

To present a comprehensive overview of the occurrence, bioconcentration, and health impacts of alpha-emitting radionuclides in wild mushrooms worldwide. The review systematically examines both natural and anthropogenic alpha emitters found in edible mushroom species from different geographic regions.

Results

Natural 210Po showed the highest activity concentrations (up to 22 kBq/kg dry weight in Finnish mushrooms), while synthetic 239+240Pu reached 53.8 Bq/kg dry weight in Ukrainian mushrooms. Effective radiation doses from mushroom consumption ranged from 0.033 µSv/kg to 26.8 mSv/kg dry weight depending on origin. Bioaccumulation varies significantly by mushroom species and local environmental conditions.

Conclusion

Wild mushrooms accumulate alpha-emitting radionuclides, with naturally occurring isotopes (especially 210Po and 226Ra) being the primary concern in unpolluted areas. In contaminated regions near nuclear accidents or test sites, anthropogenic radionuclides may pose additional risk. Geographic location, soil geology, and species-specific accumulation capacity are critical factors determining radiation exposure from mushroom consumption.
  • Published in:International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/ijerph17218220, PMID: 33172165
Scroll to Top