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Radionuclides in Milk: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis and Probabilistic Human Risk Assessment
Yadolah Fakhri1, Zeinab Gholami2, Olga A Malanova3
1Food Health Research Center Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences Bandar Abbas Iran.
Food Science & Nutrition
|June 8, 2026
Summary
This study analyzed worldwide milk radionuclide levels, finding Potassium-40 highest and Cesium-134 lowest. Human health risks from Cesium-137, Iodine-131, and Lead-210 exceeded acceptable limits in several countries, necessitating monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Nuclear Chemistry
Background:
- Milk is a vital dietary component, potentially accumulating radionuclides from environmental contamination.
- Global variations in radionuclide concentrations in milk pose risks to human health.
- Understanding these risks is crucial for public health policy and food safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze radionuclide concentrations (Cesium-137, Cesium-134, Iodine-131, Lead-210, Potassium-40) in milk globally.
- To assess associated human health risks, specifically excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR).
- To identify high-risk regions and inform necessary interventions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines.
- Random-effects model for pooled radionuclide concentration estimation.
- Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) for probabilistic human health risk assessment.
Main Results:
- Global pooled mean concentrations (Bq/L): K-40 > Cs-137 > I-131 > Pb-210 > Cs-134.
- Extreme concentrations observed in the UK, Syria, and India; lowest in Mali and Algeria.
- Cancer risk exceeded acceptable limits for Cs-137, K-40, I-131, and Pb-210 in multiple countries.
Conclusions:
- Significant regional disparities in milk radionuclide contamination and associated health risks exist.
- Strict monitoring and enhanced food safety policies are essential, particularly in high-risk areas.
- Reducing radionuclide exposure through milk consumption requires targeted agricultural and regulatory strategies.
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