Concerns About Radiation and Food Safety in Taiwan After Japan's Nuclear Disaster

Radiation Pollution and Food Safety in Japan

Hello, I am currently two months pregnant and living on the Northeast coast of the United States.
I really hope to return to Taiwan for two or three months, but I am very concerned about the environmental radiation issues in Taiwan.
My biggest worry is that the contamination from the Fukushima nuclear disaster seven years ago has affected the air, water, and soil, thereby impacting the food supply as well.
Crops grown in the soil are consumed by animals, and then humans eat those animals or plants, which means radiation could enter the human body, right? Are food products in Taiwan regularly tested for radiation levels? I can avoid eating fish from contaminated waters, but I can't avoid rice!
I researched the radiation issues in Japan, and some articles state that Japan has very strict testing standards, so their food is safe.
Other articles suggest that any level of radiation can cause harm, and we shouldn't assume that low doses are safe.
During my search, I also unexpectedly found out that there are radiation issues with table salt in Taiwan.
I haven't returned to Taiwan for many years, and I really want to go back, but I fear that my fetus and my four-year-old son will be affected by radiation during our time there.
Additionally, due to the issues with tainted oil and milk in Taiwan, will I need to bring my own oil, salt, and rice in my luggage? I'm worried that customs won't allow me to bring food into the country.
Thank you for your help in clarifying these concerns.

Abby, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/06

Dr. Wang Yifen reply Radiology

1.
Regarding food safety issues in Japan, as a non-radiological diagnostic medical professional, it is recommended to consult the Ministry of Health and Welfare's Food and Drug Administration or refer to the FDA's official website under the "Japan Food Management Section." https://www.fda.gov.tw/TC/site.aspx?sid=43412.
Seven years after the nuclear disaster in Japan, there have been no reports from the Taiwanese medical community indicating that Taiwanese children have experienced growth abnormalities as a result.
You are welcome to return to Taiwan with your child, and please comply with customs regulations regarding items brought into the country.

Reply Date: 2018/01/06

More Info

Your concerns about radiation and food safety in Taiwan following Japan's nuclear disaster are completely understandable, especially considering your current pregnancy and the health of your young child. The Fukushima nuclear disaster, which occurred in March 2011, raised significant concerns about radiation exposure and its potential impact on food safety in the surrounding regions, including Taiwan.
First, it's important to note that while radiation from the Fukushima disaster did spread, the levels of contamination in Taiwan have been monitored closely by health authorities. The Taiwanese government has implemented strict regulations and testing protocols for food products, particularly those imported from Japan. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Taiwan regularly conducts inspections and tests for radioactive substances in food items. This includes monitoring levels of cesium-137, which is one of the primary radioactive isotopes of concern following the disaster.
Regarding your specific concerns about food safety, it is true that soil, water, and air can become contaminated, potentially affecting crops and livestock. However, the Taiwanese authorities have not reported any significant increases in radiation levels in food products that would pose a health risk to the population. In fact, studies have shown that the levels of radiation in food products in Taiwan remain within safe limits. The FDA has established maximum allowable levels for radioactive substances in food, and any products exceeding these levels are prohibited from entering the market.

As for your worries about consuming rice, it is indeed a staple food in Taiwan, and the government has taken measures to ensure its safety. Local rice production is monitored, and any rice that is found to have unsafe levels of radiation is removed from the market. While it is wise to be cautious, the risk of consuming contaminated rice in Taiwan is very low.

You mentioned concerns about fish and other seafood. The fishing industry in Taiwan is also regulated, and there are ongoing tests for radiation levels in seafood. While it is advisable to be cautious about consuming seafood from potentially contaminated waters, the regulatory framework in Taiwan is designed to protect consumers from unsafe products.

Regarding the issue of bringing food items from the U.S. to Taiwan, customs regulations do allow for certain food items to be brought into the country, but there are restrictions. It is best to check the latest customs regulations before your trip to ensure that you are compliant and to avoid any issues at the border.
In summary, while your concerns about radiation exposure are valid, the current food safety measures in Taiwan are robust. The risk of significant radiation exposure from food sources is low, and the government is actively monitoring and regulating food safety. If you decide to return to Taiwan, it is advisable to stay informed about the latest health guidelines and regulations. Your health and the health of your children are paramount, and being cautious while also relying on the established safety measures can help alleviate some of your worries.

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