210Po and 210Pb activity concentrations in Mytilus galloprovincialis from Croatian Adriatic coast with the related dose assessment to the coastal population

Activity concentrations of 210Po and 210Pb in the species Mytilus galloprovincialis from Croatian Adriatic coast were determined. The samples were collected in thirteen sampling places which are also a part of Croatian Mediterranean mussel watch project. The results of 210Po and 210Pb activity concentrations were found to vary between (22.1 ± 2.5)–(207 ± 21) Bq kg−1 fresh weight and (2.8 ± 1.4)–(9.3 ± 0.7) Bq kg−1 fresh weight, respectively. 210Po/210Pb ratio ranged between 6.2 and 30.7. The highest measured activities were found in the enclosed basins of the Neretva channel, where the majority of Croatian mussel cultivation is taking place. The estimated consequent average total annual effective ingestion dose due to 210Po and 210Pb from mussel consumption in Croatian coastal region is 202 ± 99 μSv with 96% contribution of 210Po to the total effective dose.

► Levels of 210Po and 210Pb in Mytilus galloprovincialis at Croatian Adriatic coast.
► The highest activities are in areas of major mussel cultivation (Neretva channel).
► Dose assessment to the Croatian coastal population is 202 ± 99 μSv.
► 96% contribution of 210Po to the total effective dose.