Assessment of Radioactive Isotopes in Fish from the Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The main objective of this research effort is to assess the levels of radioactivity in seafood that Saudi Arabians eat from the Red Sea region. The Red Sea is a specialized area that serves as a crucial connection between the Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea on the global map. Saudi Arabia borders the Red Sea for around 2.400 kilometers, stretching from Haql Governorate in the north to the Jazan region in the south. A study from KAUST University found that Saudis consume an average of around 320,000 tons of fish annually, so it’s crucial to ensure the safety of fish and shellfish consumed by individuals in Saudi Arabia. This study is in line with the region's dedication to sustainable development and ensuring food security. It is crucial to comprehend the potential radiation exposure from consuming locally sourced seafood to meet a significant fraction of the nutritional needs and ensure the safety of local seafood in the Red Sea region. This study employed gamma spectrometry by the department of nuclear engineering at King Abdulaziz University under the supervision of Dr. Abdul Salam M. Al Hawsawi to examine both natural and man-made radionuclides in fish and shellfish. The findings will help establish essential foundational data, guaranteeing the safety of the expanding local fish industry and guiding legislative actions for the sustainable and secure consumption of food.