Fukushima Fish have 258 Times Safe Level of RadiationLisa Garber The plant ceased operations following a meltdown involving three reactors after the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March of 2011. Radiation Spike in Fish Since June, officials have allowed fishing outside a 31-mile radius from the plant while being purportedly stunned by the record radiation levels of the fish. Until the recently captured pair of greenlings, record radiation levels had been at 18,700 becquerels per kilo as found in cherry salmons. The Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) is intent on capturing more of and researching the fish, their food sources, as well as their habitats to explain the 7,100 becquerels jump. Of course there is no safe level of radiation, and food contaminated with high amounts of radiation can be especially dangerous. Not too long ago, it was found that radioactive food (food contaminated with radiation from Fukushima or others sources), is actually comparable to receiving hundreds of X-rays. Radiations Wide Effects Radiation cast an even wider net, however, than for fish alone. Butterflies with disfigured eyes, legs, and antennae and stunted wings have caught the eye of scientists and put fear in the hearts of locals. The Sixth Report of Fukushima Prefecture Health Management Survey has declared that 36 percent of Fukushima children have malformed thyroid growths and may develop cancer. Infants and young people are most endangered by radiations effects, according to the World Health Organization, because cellular division occurs faster. Protecting Yourself from Radiation Fukushima plant operators have already admitted that the Fukushima radiation levels emitted from the disaster exceeds almost two and a half times the initial estimate produced by Japanese safety regulators. Researchers have also stated that the amount of radioactive isotope caesium-137 released at the height of the crisis was equivalent to 42% of that from Chernobyl. This is cause for concern, and prompts a serious need for protection. For now, its best to avoid certain varieties of fish from particular areas. Keep in mind that some contaminated tuna have been found off the California coast. Remember that no dose of radiation is safe and there are variables to consider when protecting yourself from it. Additional Sources: Explore More: 