Evaluation of Radiocesium Contamination in Samples of Blueberries Jams

For the purposes of food safety the monitoring of radioactivity in foodstuffs is carried out in order to follow the progress of the contamination as a result of incidents that occurred both in the past (eg Chernobyl) and in more recent times (eg, Fukushima). Then, the movement of goods from these countries to Europe may be due to the propagation of potentially toxic foods for health. At the Port of Trieste in the period of August and September 2013, some loads of blueberries (Vaccinum mirtyllus L.) were examined witin the application of EC Regulation 733/2008 on the conditions governing imports of agricultural products originating in the countries affected by the nuclear accident of Chernobyl in 1986. The fruits came from Ukraine and were intended for the production of foods containing blueberries in particular, jams and marmalades. Because in some cases Radiocesium concentrations (cesium 137) had been found with significant values, though below the limit of 600 Bq /kg as required by the Regulations, it was decided to undertake a research to verify whether and as was extended the presence of this contaminant in the raw material at the levels tested. In this way it is possible define as the contamination could be reflected significantly on finished products intended for consumption. It can not be excluded in principle the possibility of a phenomenon of concentration and accumulation of the fraction saline in finished products such as marmalades, jams, concentrates etc., as result of the different operations and technological treatment necessary for their preparation. Then the results of tests carried out on samples of major brands of jams and marmalades, made with blueberries and cranberries will be presented; they in fact represent samples of blueberries food with significant and great circulation, and therefore may characterizing the quality and healthiness of these foods on the national territory.