Why are Brazil nuts so radioactive?

Why are Brazil nuts so radioactive?

Like bananas, Brazil nuts contain potassium, but they also contain a small amount of radium that is taken up from the soil in which they are grown.

Is there a problem with Brazil nuts?

Are there any side effects of eating Brazil nuts? Taking the recommended intake of Brazil nuts can rarely cause any trouble. ... Selenium toxicity: Selenium overdose due to eating Brazil nuts in excess can cause nausea, vomiting, nail discoloration, brittleness, hair loss, fatigue, irritability, and bad breath.

What is the best fruit to eat every day?

20 Healthy Fruits That Are Super Nutritious

1. Apples. One of the most popular fruits, apples are chock-full of nutrition. ...
2. Blueberries. Blueberries are well known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. ...
3. Bananas. ...
4. Oranges. ...
5. Dragon fruit. ...
6. Mango. ...
7. Avocado. ...
8. Lychee.

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Why are bananas and Brazil nuts radioactive?

Bananas. ... But bananas also happen to be one of the most radioactive foods because they contain the isotope potassium-40. Thanks to this isotope, everyone's favorite yellow fruit emits a tiny amount of radiation. Much like the Brazil nuts, the radioactive potassium is taken up in the soil and absorbed by the fruit.

Are there any dangers in eating Brazil nuts?

Brazil nuts, however, can possess some hidden dangers you need to know about, among which Brazil nuts radiation is a big concern. Brazil nuts would definitely win the award of “most radioactive food” if there was such a thing. They are high in levels of two radioactive elements: potassium and radium.

Is there a limit on aflatoxin in Brazil nuts?

The European Commission has also set a separate maximum limit for aflatoxin B1 allowed in Brazil nuts because this type of aflatoxin has been found to be particularly dangerous. If a sample of Brazil nuts contains more than 5 micrograms of aflatoxins per kilogram, the lot cannot be sold for direct human consumption.

How much radiation is emitted from Brazil nuts?

Generally, over 6,600 pCi/kg of radiation are emitted from Brazil nuts. Most of this Brazil nuts radiation passes through the body harmlessly, and the large levels of selenium and other minerals keep the nuts health to consume in moderation.

What kind of mold is in Brazil nuts?

Aflatoxin is produced by two types of mold, Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, and these molds thrive in warm and humid conditions. Therefore, you should always store your Brazil nuts in a dark and cool place, and consume them fast.