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I. T. Matasar, N. V. Gunko, N. V. Piven, L. M. Petryshchenko
State Institution «National Research Center for Radiation Medicine, Hematology and Oncology of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine», 53 Yuriia Illienka Str., Kyiv, 04050, Ukraine
FOOD SECURITY OF THE POPULATION IN RADIOACTIVELY CONTAMINATED TERRITORIES OF UKRAINE: HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE AND MODERN CHALLENGES AMID MARTIAL LAW
The article studies the historical experience of ensuring food security for the population of radioactively contaminated territories (RCTs) of Ukraine after the Chornobyl catastrophe of 1986 and analyzes the modern challenges
caused by the full'scale martial law. Based on the analysis of archival materials, regulatory legal acts, and scientific publications, it was established that in the first years after the accident, the government implemented a comprehensive protection system which included: centralized supply of clean products, production of safe agricultural
products, use of radioprotectors, organization of balanced nutrition for children, and large'scale information and
educational work. However, chronic underfunding and the liquidation of specialized services led to the gradual
destruction of this system. Surveys conducted showed that, despite being aware of the radiation contamination, a
significant part of the RCT residents continue to consume local products, especially «gifts of the forest» (wild
foods), which is the main source of internal irradiation. This is due to a low level of material well'being and local
dietary traditions. Under conditions of full'scale war, where critical infrastructure is being destroyed and logistical
chains are disrupted, the issue of food security in RCTs becomes particularly acute. The authors conclude that historical experience demonstrates the need for constant funding and coordination of efforts for effective population
protection. Modern conditions require the development of new approaches that will consider not only radiation risks
but also the challenges associated with martial law, including infrastructure destruction, economic instability, and
limited access to safe products.
Key words: Chornobyl catastrophe, radioactively contaminated territories, food security, radionuclides, martial law,
internal irradiation.
Problems of Radiation Medicine and Radiobiology.
2025;30:88-104. doi: 10.33145/2304-8336-2025-30-88-104
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