Indonesian authorities have detected traces of radioactivity in a clove farm on Sumatra following the US FDA’s discovery of cesium-137 contamination in Indonesian spices. This contamination was first identified in a sample from PT Natural Java Spice and later in frozen shrimp. As a response, the Indonesian government initiated an investigation, which found radioactivity only at a clove farm in Lampung, leading to a ban on the sale of cloves from that location.
Authorities have also detected cesium-137 in 22 facilities at the Cikande Industrial Park, prompting tighter regulations and inspections for contamination. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofik announced a suspension on imports of scrap iron and steel, believed to be the contamination source.
The FDA has restricted sales from two Indonesian companies until they rectify the issue, and beginning in late October, certain regions’ shrimp and spice exports will require certification due to contamination risks. The FDA highlighted the health risks linked to long-term exposure to cesium-137.
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