Studies of radioactivity in food crops are important in estimating the radiological hazards and dose exposure to the public. In this study, natural radioactivity levels of 40K, 232Th and 238U were determined in two staple foods (maize and mung beans) locally grown at Minjingu village where the Tanzania biggest phosphate mine resides. The analysis was carried out using gamma spectrometry of Tanzania Atomic Energy Commission (TAEC) in Arusha. Results from this study will provide information that can verify the extent and the nature of the level of pollution in Minjingu Village associated with phosphate mining. The result will also be used by the authorities for proper intervention to the problem. One of the aims of this study is to determine the safe distance from the mine for crop cultivation. Further studies which will identify the type of crop grown in the area with least uptake of radionuclide are proposed.

Measurements of natural radioactivity in food crops locally grown in the neighbourhood of Minjingu phosphate mine

245th National Meeting (2013)

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