On October 27, 2026, the International Radiation Science Collaboration Center, held the 19th International Radiation Science Collaboration Center Seminar in a hybrid format, with both on-site and online participation.

For this seminar, IREM welcomed Dr. Kevin Kelleher from the Environmental Protection Agency, Ireland, who delivered a lecture entitled “Development of International Guidance for Radioactivity in Food.”

Drawing on his experience in the development of international guidance on radioactivity in food within the framework of the IAEA, Dr. Kelleher introduced the background and challenges involved in managing radioactivity in food in non-emergency situations. He also discussed the perspectives and feedback provided by national regulatory authorities during the development of international guidance.

The seminar provided a valuable opportunity to consider how internationally applicable guidance can be developed in a field where food consumption patterns, regulatory approaches, and social circumstances differ considerably among countries and regions.

A total of 23 participants attended the seminar in person, mainly students and staff members of Hirosaki University. In addition, 27 participants from 13 countries joined the seminar online.

Following the lecture, many questions were raised by both on-site and online participants, leading to a lively discussion. The seminar provided a meaningful forum for exchanging perspectives from different countries and scientific backgrounds and deepened participants’ understanding of the scientific and regulatory aspects of radioactivity in food.

The International Radiation Science Collaboration Center will continue to invite researchers and specialists from Japan and abroad to share current knowledge in radiation science, radiation protection, and nuclear and radiological emergency preparedness, while providing opportunities for students, early-career researchers, and specialists from different countries to exchange ideas and engage in discussion.

Lecture scene ①	Lecture scene ②
Dr. Kevin Kelleher