DETERMINATION OF K-40 AND CS-137 CONCENTRATION IN SELECTED HONEY SAMPLES

Seventeen honey samples collected at different sites during 1992 have been measured using the method of gamma-spectroscopy. Measurements were performed by a low background high purity germanium spectrometer of a relative efficiency of 14.5% and an energy resolution of 1.7 keV. Using natural gamma-ray sources to determine efficiency, it has been shown that out of 17 samples of natural honey only two (of meadow type) have specific activity of Cs-137 greater than 0.5 Bq kg(-1). The remaining samples have the same Cs-137 concentrations as before May, 1986. Predominant activity in all samples comes from the K-40 radionuclide, indicating natural honey.