Researchers claim that German wild boars are radioactive; understand why

The presence of radioactivity in wild boars in Germany is an intriguing phenomenon that has caught the attention of scientists for years. Initially, the Chernobyl nuclear disaster was the predominant explanation.

This is because the radiation released in the accident contaminated large areas of the Europe. In this sense, nuclear weapons testing in the 20th century was a topic of great concern and controversy around the world.

Although most of them occurred outside Europe, the European continent played an important role in the nuclear arms race and deterrence policy during the Cold War.

In view of this, this new study casts doubt on this explanation and suggests that nuclear weapons testing in the 20th century may also have contributed to the radioactivity of wild boars.

Analyzing wild boar meat samples and measuring cesium-137 levels are key methods for understanding radioactive contamination.

(Photo: Shutterstock/reproduction)

Researchers used gamma ray detector

Using a high purity gamma ray detector is an accurate tool for measuring radioactive activity, while spectrometry allows you to compare different cesium isotopes to determine the origin of Contamination.

This research is important not only to understand the impact of radiation in ecosystems, but also to assess potential risks to human health, as wild boars are often hunted for meat.

Furthermore, the investigation demonstrates how science can revisit mysteries and challenge conventional explanations, contributing to more accurate and comprehensive knowledge.

The study indicates that, in 88% of the meat samples analyzed, levels of radioactive cesium exceeded the legal limits established in Germany.

Using the ratio of cesium-135 to cesium-137, researchers concluded that nuclear weapons testing were the main cause, responsible for up to 68% of contamination in samples that exceeded the safe limit of consumption.

In this scenario, German wild boars became radioactive due to the inclusion of underground truffles in their diet. These truffles are found at different levels of contamination, which results in radioactivity in the animals. They are known to consume sources of cesium that are mixed into the soil.

This study assumes significant importance in light of the resurgence of nuclear energy as a potential low-carbon solution in response to climate change.

However, he also warns that possible future nuclear accidents or explosions could intensify contamination. of wild boars, other animals and even humans, having immediate and long-term consequences on safety to feed.

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