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No contaminated food samples found from Japan, says SFA in response to recent Wall Street Journal podcast.
While the podcast was posted on The Wall Street Journal's website on Aug 24, it referenced Mar 25, 2011, which was two weeks after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan.
No contaminated food samples found from Japan, says SFA in response to recent Wall Street Journal podcast
A view of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant after it started releasing treated radioactive water into the Pacific Ocean, seen from the nearby Ukedo fishing port in Namie town, Fukushima Prefecture, Japan, on Aug 25, 2023.
03 Sep 2023 10:57PM (Updated: 03 Sep 2023 11:00PM)
SINGAPORE: Singapore has not found contaminated food samples from Japan following the release of wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant, said the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Sunday (Sep 3).
The clarification was in response to a Wall Street Journal (WSJ) podcast titled More Countries Ban Import of Japanese Food.
The podcast, which was posted on Aug 24, said "Singapore has found radioactive contamination in vegetable samples from Japan".
"The WSJ podcast has referred to a media release by the former Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority of Singapore in 2011," said SFA. "This has since been overtaken by events."
While the podcast was posted on WSJ's website on Aug 24, it referenced Mar 25, 2011, which was two weeks after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan.
SFA added on Sunday it has not found samples of contaminated vegetables from Japan or banned food products from any Japanese prefectures recently.
The agency also reiterated that it adopts a science-based approach towards assessing food safety risks.
"Food imported into Singapore is subjected to SFA’s surveillance and monitoring regime, which includes radiation surveillance and enforcement actions will be taken should any food imports be found to be unsafe or unsuitable for consumption."
In response to questions about food safety following Japan's decision to release Fukushima wastewater into the Pacific Ocean, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, Grace Fu said on Aug 3 that SFA has been closely monitoring food imports, including those from Japan.
"The National Environment Agency (NEA) assesses that Japan's planned discharge of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea is unlikely to impact the seawater in or around Singapore waters," she added.
"The radioactivity measured continues to remain within our natural background levels."
On Aug 24, Japanese authorities began discharging into the sea treated water used to cool the damaged reactors.
Related:
South Korean protesters call for government action on Fukushima water
Japan may take China to WTO over Fukushima-driven seafood import ban
CNA Explains: Why is Japan releasing Fukushima wastewater into the Pacific and how safe is it?
Japan's fisheries agency found that fish tested in waters around the Fukushima nuclear plant did not contain detectable levels of radiation, two days after the waters were released.
However, China has banned all Japanese seafood imports in the wake of the release, while Hong Kong has since curbed "aquatic products" from 10 Japanese prefectures.
South Korea also saw protests involving about 50,000 people demanding that the country's government take action. In a separate incident, arrests were made after protestors entered a building housing the Japanese embassy in Seoul.
(Source: CNA here)
🚨 请大家注意并特别注意 ⚠️ 📢 Qǐng dàjiā zhùyì bìng tèbié zhùyì 📢
Everybody, please be careful and take special notes ⚠️
"Singapore said it found radioactive contamination in four samples of vegetables imported from Japan and has extended the ban to food from two more Japanese prefectures.
Singapore's Agri-Food & Veterinary Authority said radioactive contamination was found in Mitsuba (Japanese wild parsley), Nanohana (rapeseed plant), Mizuna (Japanese mustard) and perilla leaf samples."
More Countries Ban Import of Japanese Food - With more countries detecting radioactive contamination in food imported from Japan, efforts to prevent it spreading through the global food chain have gained a new urgency (Wall Street Journal, 8/24/2023)
WARNING ⚠️
CAUTION ⚠️
NOTE 📝
https://theinnozablog.blogspot.com/2023/09/radioactive-contamination-in-food.html
⚠️ 📢 🚨
Radioactivity can contaminate food after it has been discharged into the environment from industries that concentrate natural radionuclides and from civil or military nuclear operations. Whether, man-made or natural in origin, radioactive material passes through the food chain in the same way as non-radioactive material.
天然放射性核素浓缩工业以及民用或军用核作业排放到环境中后，放射性可能会污染食品。 Tiān rán fàngshèxìng hé sù nóng suō gōng yè yǐ jí mín yòng huò jūn yòng hé zuò yè pái fàng dào huán jìng zhōng hòu, fàng shè xìng kě néng huì wū rǎn shí pǐn.
无论是人造的还是天然的，放射性物质都以与非放射性物质相同的方式穿过食物链。 Wúlùn shì rénzào de háishì tiānrán de, fàngshèxìng wùzhí dōu yǐ yǔ fēi fàngshèxìng wùzhí xiāngtóng de fāngshì chuānguò shíwùliàn. ⚠️ ⚠️ ⚠️ 📢 🚨
Yasuhiro Sonoda Still Alive: Where Is Yasuhiro Sonoda Now?
( September 1, 2023 )
Yasuhiro Sonoda Still Alive
In a world that often forgets the heroes of the past, there are individuals whose legacies refuse to fade into obscurity. Yasuhiro Sonoda is one such figure—a name that may not be on everyone’s lips, but a story that deserves to be heard. This article delves into the life and achievements of Yasuhiro Sonoda, a remarkable individual whose influence continues to ripple through time.
Who Is Yasuhiro Sonoda?
The Early Days of Yasuhiro Sonoda
Yasuhiro Sonoda was born on June 19, 1948, in Oita Prefecture, Japan. His early life was marked by a passion for education, and he excelled academically from a young age. His teachers often noted his insatiable curiosity and boundless enthusiasm for learning.
A Journey into Politics
As he grew older, Sonoda’s interests shifted towards politics. He attended the University of Tokyo, where he studied political science and international relations. His time at university laid the foundation for his future career in diplomacy and public service.
Rising Through the Ranks
Sonoda’s career in politics took off when he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Japan. His dedication and diplomatic skills quickly caught the attention of his superiors. He climbed the ranks steadily, serving in various key positions.
A Historic Achievement
One of Yasuhiro Sonoda’s most significant achievements was his role in the signing of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in 1970. As a young diplomat, he represented Japan during the negotiations. The NPT aimed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament—a cause that remains crucial to global security.
The Legacy Lives On
The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Disaster
Yasuhiro Sonoda’s name became widely recognized during the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011. He was appointed as the Minister for Disaster Management at a critical juncture. His handling of the crisis and his unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability earned him praise both domestically and internationally.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Throughout his career, Sonoda championed social and environmental causes. He advocated for the rights of marginalized communities and was a strong proponent of sustainable development. His passion for these issues resonated with many, making him a beloved figure among activists and environmentalists.
The Path Less Traveled
One of the most remarkable aspects of Yasuhiro Sonoda’s legacy is his commitment to forging unconventional paths in politics. He was not afraid to take risks or speak his mind, even when it meant going against the grain. This fearless approach left an indelible mark on the Japanese political landscape.
A Lasting Impact
Honoring Yasuhiro Sonoda’s Memory
Although Yasuhiro Sonoda passed away in 2020, his memory lives on in the hearts of those who admired his work. His dedication to public service, diplomacy, and social causes serves as an enduring source of inspiration for future generations.
Lessons from His Life
Yasuhiro Sonoda’s life offers several valuable lessons. His unwavering commitment to his principles, his courage in the face of adversity, and his ability to bridge divides are qualities that we can all aspire to emulate in our own lives.
A Call to Action
As we remember Yasuhiro Sonoda and the impact he had on our world, let us not forget the power of one individual to effect change. His legacy reminds us that each of us has the potential to make a difference, no matter how daunting the challenges may seem.
Conclusion
Yasuhiro Sonoda was not a household name, but his contributions to diplomacy, disaster management, and social causes were nothing short of remarkable. His story serves as a testament to the enduring power of passion, dedication, and fearlessness in the pursuit of a better world.
FAQ:
Q1: What were Yasuhiro Sonoda’s major achievements?
A1: Yasuhiro Sonoda played a crucial role in the signing of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in 1970 and gained international recognition for his handling of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011.
Q2: How did Yasuhiro Sonoda influence Japanese politics?
A2: Sonoda’s fearless approach to politics and his commitment to unconventional paths left a lasting impact on Japanese politics, inspiring future generations to prioritize transparency and accountability.
Q3: What were Sonoda’s key values and principles?
A3: Yasuhiro Sonoda was a strong advocate for social justice, environmental causes, and sustainable development. He believed in the power of diplomacy and the importance of protecting our world from nuclear proliferation.
Q4: What can we learn from Yasuhiro Sonoda’s life and legacy?
A4: Yasuhiro Sonoda’s life teaches us about the impact one individual can make through passion, dedication, and courage. His legacy encourages us to stand up for what we believe in and work towards positive change.
Q5: When did Yasuhiro Sonoda pass away?
A5: Yasuhiro Sonoda passed away in 2020, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide people around the world.
The Sydney Morning Herald
This was published 11 years ago
Caught-out MP nervously drinks a glass of Fukushima water
By Danielle Demetriou in Tokyo
November 3, 2011 — 8.41am
The press conference was going well for Yasuhiro Sonoda. He confidently reeled off figures showing low levels of contamination at the critically damaged Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Then journalists asked him to prove it.
Nervous 😓 ... Yasuhiro Sonoda.
Looking nervous, hands trembling, Mr Sonoda drank a glass of water scooped up from pools inside the nuclear plant.
Mr Sonoda, an Member of Parliament and parliamentary spokesman for the cabinet office, was trying to increase confidence in the efficiency of decontamination procedures.
Water collected from beneath two reactor buildings is decontaminated then used for tasks such as watering plants, which has been the subject of safety concerns in the media.
Speaking at the offices of Tokyo Electric Power Co, the operator of the plant, Mr Sonoda said: "Just drinking [decontaminated water] doesn't mean safety has been confirmed, I know that. Presenting data to the public is the best way."
His decision to drink water is not the first time a politician has performed a stunt to allay public health concerns.
Japan's former prime minister, Naoto Kan, and his chief spokesman, Yukio Edano, both ate food from Fukushima following the nuclear crisis.
Their actions echo the decision of John Gummer, the former Tory MP and British agriculture minister, to eat hamburgers with his four-year-old daughter in front of the media in 1990 at the height of the mad cow disease scare.
In that instance, Mr Gummer's actions backfired as a surge in BSE cases followed, leading to a collapse in confidence in beef safety and a public inquiry into his handling of the crisis.
Fukushima power plant was badly damaged when the earthquake and tsunami struck on March 11, resulting in a series of meltdowns after the facility's cooling systems were knocked out.
Radiation spilled out as operators struggled to contain the worst nuclear disaster since Chernobyl in 1986. Nearly eight months after the disaster, a 12-mile exclusion zone is still in place because of contamination and tens of thousands of residents remain displaced.
Tepco remains optimistic that it will achieve cold shutdown, when the reactors are stabilised and the water no longer at boiling point, by the end of the year. The government also announced that journalists would be able to visit the plant for the first time on November 12.
The Daily Telegraph, London.
[French]
Les personnes égoïstes et lâches sont souvent malheureuses car même si elles protègent leurs propres intérêts et leur sécurité, elles ne peuvent pas protéger leur caractère et leur confiance en elles. - Proverbe français
[English]
Selfish and cowardly people are often unhappy because even though they protect their own interests and security, they can not protect their character and self-confidence. - French proverb
[Simplified Chinese]
自私、懦弱的人往往不快乐，因为即使他们保护自己的利益和安全，却无法保护自己的品格和自信。 ——法国谚语
( hanyu pinyin )
Zìsī, nuòruò de rén wǎngwǎng bù kuàilè, yīnwèi jíshǐ tāmen bǎohù zìjǐ de lìyì hé ānquán, què wúfǎ bǎohù zìjǐ de pǐngé hé zìxìn. —— Fàguó yànyǔ
[Malay]
Orang yang mementingkan diri sendiri dan pengecut sering tidak berpuas hati kerana walaupun mereka melindungi kepentingan dan keselamatan mereka sendiri, mereka tidak dapat melindungi watak dan keyakinan diri mereka. - Peribahasa Perancis
[Tamil]
Cuyanalam maṟṟum kōḻaittaṉamāṉa makkaḷ perumpālum makiḻcciyaṟṟavarkaḷ, ēṉeṉṟāl avarkaḷ taṅkaḷ conta nalaṉkaḷaiyum pātukāppaiyum pātukāttālum, avarkaḷ taṅkaḷ kuṇattaiyum taṉṉampikkaiyaiyum pātukākka muṭiyātu. - Pireñcu paḻamoḻi
From this time on, no one knew about Yasuhiro Sonoda again, and some people once rumored that he had leukemia, and others said that he had passed away.
But in any case, we cannot be sure whether Japan's so-called treated nuclear wastewater is really harmless to humans.
Perhaps the day when the truth will be revealed in the future, but before that, we must say no to nuclear wastewater, for ourselves and for our homes.
从此，再也没有人知道园田康弘的事了，有人一度传言他得了白血病，也有人说他已经去世了。Cóngcǐ, zài yě méiyǒurén zhīdào yuántián kānghóng de shìle, yǒu rén yīdù chuányán tā déliǎo báixiěbìng, yěyǒu rén shuō tā yǐjīng qùshìle.
但无论如何，我们都无法确定日本所谓的经过处理的核废水是否真的对人类无害。Dàn wúlùn rúhé, wǒmen dōu wúfǎ quèdìng rìběn suǒwèi de jīngguò chǔlǐ de hé fèishuǐ shìfǒu zhēn de duì rénlèi wú hài.
也许将来有一天真相会被揭开，但在此之前，我们必须对核废水说不，为了我们自己，为了我们的家园。Yěxǔ jiānglái yǒu yītiān zhēnxiàng huì bèi jiē kāi, dàn zài cǐ zhīqián, wǒmen bìxū duì hé fèishuǐ shuō bu, wèile wǒmen zìjǐ, wèile wǒmen de jiāyuán.
(This article is more than 12 years old)
Japanese MP drinks Fukushima water under pressure from journalists
Yasuhiro Sonoda's hands shake as he drinks water collected from the plant to back up government claims of decontamination
Justin McCurry in Tokyo
Tue 1 Nov 2011 14.09 GMT
It was a simple gulp of water, but one that Japan's government hopes will carry symbolic importance as it seeks to ease concern over decontamination efforts at the scene of the country's nuclear crisis.
Yasuhiro Sonoda, an MP in the governing Democratic party of Japan (DPJ), was visibly nervous as his lips met a glass of water collected from inside two reactor buildings at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.
The 44-year-old had been cajoled into making the gesture by journalists who repeatedly asked him to substantiate government claims that decontamination efforts at the plant were progressing.
Sonoda's hands shook as he half-filled the glass from a plastic bottle, before polishing off the water in two swift gulps. He briefly held the glass up to the cameras, as if to prove that no sleight of hand had been involved.
Despite his reticence, Sonoda was not engaging in an act of masochism: the water in question, while once radioactive, had been stripped of radioactive iodine and caesium-134 and -137. Its source, reactors Nos 5 and 6, suffered less contamination than other units at the plant.
Sonoda, parliamentary secretary at the cabinet office, said his gesture was no publicity stunt: "I am aware that just drinking [the treated water] doesn't in itself mean that safety has been confirmed. The best way to do that is to present data to the public."
The cleanup effort at Fukushima Daiichi has been complicated by the buildup of massive quantities of contaminated water in and around the complex. Its operator, Tokyo Electric Power [Tepco], has started treating the water but is running out of places in which to store it.
Water from the reactors that were the source of Sonoda's drink is being used to spray trees to limit the buildup of dust and prevent fires. But, according to officials, it was never intended for human consumption.
He was making good on a promise delivered in response to a challenge posed Yu Terasawa, a well-known freelance journalist, at a press conference last month.
Sonoda reportedly said at the time: "I don't want it to be seen as some kind of performance, but if that's the best way to prove that the water is safe then I would gladly drink it right here, in front of you, any time."
He wasn't the first Japanese politician to demonstrate his faith in the safety of food and water amid widespread concern about the presence of radioactive substances in beef and other produce from Fukushima prefecture.
In April the then chief cabinet secretary, Yukio Edano, ate a strawberry from Iwaki, about 30 miles from Fukushima Daiichi, during a promotional event in Tokyo.
But comparisons with John Gummer, the Conservative politician who ate a hamburger to demonstrate the safety of British beef during the BSE crisis, may be misplaced. Unlike the former agriculture minister, who tried to get his daughter to take a bite of a burger, Sonoda did not enlist the services of members of his family.
What happened to the Japanese congressmen who drank nuclear wastewater in 11 years? The account was suspended in 2014, and he withdrew from politics the following year ...
2023-09-03 08:16AM CLICK HERE
We’re still recovering’: 11 years after Fukushima nuclear disaster, residents return to their village , click here
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