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Radioactivity in bottled mineral waters
A Martín Sánchez1, M P Rubio Montero, V Gómez Escobar
1Departamento de Física, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz, Spain.
Summary
Bottled mineral water can contain high levels of radioactivity, particularly those with high mineralization from underground sources. This study analyzed waters from France, Portugal, and Spain, finding some exceeded regulatory limits for total alpha and beta activity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiochemistry
- Public Health
Background:
- Bottled mineral water consumption is increasing globally.
- Understanding the radioactive content of bottled water is crucial for consumer safety.
- Previous studies have indicated variability in mineral and trace element content.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the radioactive content (total alpha, beta activity, and specific radionuclides) in a diverse range of commercial bottled mineral waters.
- To compare measured radioactivity levels against established regulatory reference levels.
- To investigate the relationship between radioactive content and water mineralization.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of total alpha and beta activity concentrations in bottled waters from France, Portugal, and Spain.
- Gamma spectrometry was employed to identify specific radionuclides.
- Low-level liquid scintillation counting was used for uranium and radium-226 determination in high-activity samples.
Main Results:
- Significant variations in total alpha and beta activity were observed across different bottled water brands.
- Some samples exceeded the reference levels set by the Spanish Nuclear Safety Council (CSN).
- A strong positive correlation was found between radioactive content and the dry residue (mineralization) of the water.
Conclusions:
- High radioactive content in bottled mineral water is primarily linked to its degree of mineralization, especially for waters of underground origin.
- Consumers should be aware of potential radiological risks associated with highly mineralized bottled waters.
- Further monitoring and regulation may be necessary to ensure consumer safety regarding radioactive contaminants in bottled water.