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Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the adoption of historic documents in the field of nuclear security

The anniversary of the adoption of two historic international legal instruments – the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism – became the central theme of a side event dedicated to this occasion.

October 22, 2025

Jonathan Herbach, Legal Affairs Bureau

Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi with speakers at a side event. Photo: D. Calma/IAEA

Participants at the IAEA General Conference simultaneously celebrated 20 years of global cooperation in strengthening nuclear security. The anniversary of the adoption of two landmark international legal instruments—the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material and the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism—was the central theme of a side event dedicated to this milestone.

At the event, co-organized by the IAEA, the Kingdom of Morocco, the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), participants assessed the progress made in this area over the past two decades and reaffirmed the international community's commitment to preventing nuclear terrorism and other criminal acts involving nuclear and other radioactive materials.

Speakers at the event included the Director of the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT), Mauro Médico; the Permanent Representative of the Argentine Republic to the IAEA, H.E. Mr. Gustavo Rodolfo Slovinen; the Permanent Representative of Canada to the IAEA, H.E. Ms. Alison Grant; the Permanent Representative of Mongolia to the IAEA, H.E. Mr. Tsengeg Mizhiddorj; the Permanent Representative of the Republic of Paraguay to the IAEA, H.E. Mr. Juan Francisco Fascetti; the Permanent Representative of the Swiss Confederation to the IAEA, H.E. Mr. Matteo Facinotti; and the Permanent Representative of the Delegation of the European Union to the IAEA, H.E. Mr. Karl Hallergaard.

Ambassador Azzeddine Farhan opens the side event by reiterating the global commitment to preventing nuclear terrorism and strengthening international cooperation.

Opening the side event, Ambassador Azeddine Farhan, Permanent Representative of Morocco to the IAEA, stated: "The adoption of these fundamental legal instruments in 2005 was a decisive step in our joint efforts to prevent nuclear terrorism and strengthen international cooperation. Today, twenty years later, we reaffirm our commitment to these goals, take stock of the work accomplished, and reflect on the challenges ahead."

The amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM), adopted under the auspices of the IAEA, significantly strengthens the original Convention in a number of important respects. It expands the scope of the original treaty to cover the physical protection of peaceful nuclear facilities and nuclear material during domestic use, storage, and transport; it also establishes criminal liability for offenses related to illicit trafficking in and sabotage of nuclear material or nuclear facilities, and provides for strengthened international cooperation.

Adopted under the auspices of the United Nations, the International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSNT) applies to all types of radioactive material, including nuclear material, and obliges States Parties to establish criminal liability for the unlawful or intentional possession and use of radioactive material or radioactive devices, as well as the unlawful use of or damage to nuclear facilities.

IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stressed the importance of having a strong legal framework to protect nuclear material and enhance global security.

In his opening remarks, IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi stated: "Twenty years ago, the international community demonstrated unity in recognizing the urgent need to strengthen the legal framework to protect nuclear material and facilities and prevent the use of such material by non-State actors for harm. With the expanding peaceful use of nuclear energy and the continuing threat from malicious actors, universal adherence to these instruments will provide an important legal lever for strengthening security at the national, regional, and global levels."

UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly stressed the continued importance of a global legal framework to prevent the misuse of nuclear material and called for universal adherence to key international legal instruments.

UNODC Executive Director Ghada Waly noted: “The adoption of these instruments two decades ago marked a true turning point. Today, with many regions of the world engulfed in conflict and instability, the risk of such materials falling into the wrong hands or being misused is greater than ever. This is why our global legal framework remains fundamentally important, which explains the significance of these instruments. We must maintain the positive momentum achieved by this anniversary and continue to work towards universal adherence to the ICSANT and the CPPNM amendment.”

Other speakers also emphasized the continued relevance of these international legal instruments in the face of evolving threats and noted the importance of international cooperation in strengthening nuclear security.

The CPPNM Amendment entered into force in 2016; to date, 138 of the 165 Parties to the original Convention have acceded to it. The ICSANT entered into force in 2007 and currently has 127 Parties.

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What is food irradiation and why is it important?

What's what in the nuclear sphere?

Food irradiation using X-rays or gamma rays helps countries reduce the loss of fruits and vegetables.

October 16, 2025

Monika Shifotoka, IAEA Office of Public Information and Communication

Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

Food irradiation is a gentle, non-contact method that uses radiation to ensure the freshness and safety of food products. It eliminates microbes and controls insects and other pests while preserving the nutritional properties, flavor, and overall quality of food products. It can also be used to prevent the spread of insect pests. This method uses irradiation to transfer energy to food without changing its temperature or leaving residues. It is commonly used to preserve the quality of expensive foods such as spices, fish, and meat, and now also exotic fruits and vegetables.

Ensuring food is available in sufficient quantities, nutritious, and safe is a critical component of food security. However, food is more than just nourishment and sustenance; it is also an integral part of our cultural heritage and identity. Importantly, there are a number of methods that help preserve the safety and nutritional value of food, as well as its pleasant taste, texture, aroma, and appearance.

Food irradiation helps effectively extend shelf life, reduce waste, and provide consumers with access to the highest quality fresh produce. For example, thanks to irradiation, fresh strawberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to seven days longer.

Why is food irradiated?

There are many benefits to food irradiation.

Elimination of microbial contamination. Irradiation destroys bacteria, mold and yeast that cause food poisoning and food spoilage.
Reducing the risk of foodborne illness. Irradiation reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses caused by microorganisms found in meat, poultry and fish, among others.
Reduce the use of chemicals. Irradiation eliminates the need to use chemicals to kill germs, delay ripening or prevent sprouting in foods such as potatoes, yams, ginger, onions and garlic. It is also an alternative to fumigants that are used to disinfest imported fruits, grains and vegetables.
Extending shelf life. Irradiation helps prevent foods such as potatoes and onions from sprouting.
Delayed maturation. Irradiation allows you to slow down the ripening of fruits and extend their shelf life.
Maintaining quality. Irradiation can complement other food preservation methods to improve food safety. For example, it can be used in combination with methods such as drying, packaging and freezing in the production of dried spices, packaged meats and frozen seafood.
Pest control. Irradiation prevents the proliferation of insect pests, facilitating the development of trade outside the boundaries of quarantine zones. It can also help eliminate barn pests that destroy stocks of wheat, rice, flour and other products.
Export promotion. Food irradiation allows countries to export their products to places that have strict pest quarantine controls or strict food safety regulations.

Increasing the shelf life of fruits and vegetables using irradiation

Food irradiation using X-rays or gamma radiation helps countries reduce the loss of fruits and vegetables. With the assistance of the IAEA, a food irradiation facility in Havana, Cuba, has reopened after 20 years.

How is food irradiated?

Irradiation uses electron beams or electromagnetic waves with sufficient energy to break chemical bonds. This prevents food from becoming radioactive, but the method destroys bacteria, mold, and yeast, slows down putrefaction, and reduces spoilage, making irradiated foods completely safe for human consumption. Unlike other food preservation methods, irradiation has virtually no effect on taste, appearance, or odor due to the efficient transfer of energy without compromising food quality.

Using gamma radiation to kill bacteria on strawberries. Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

The irradiation process is fully automated and involves no human exposure to radiation. Food packages move along a conveyor belt and pass through an irradiation chamber, where they are exposed to a controlled dose of ionizing radiation in the form of gamma rays, high-energy electron beams, or X-rays. The beams penetrate the food similar to microwaves in a microwave oven, but unlike a microwave oven, irradiation does not "cook" the food, as it does not heat it up. The highest radiation dose per kilogram of food is equivalent to the amount of energy required to boil two tablespoons of water (10 kilojoules).

Irradiation can even be used to treat already packaged or frozen foods, but it is carried out in a climate-controlled environment to ensure the integrity of the cold chain and maintain food freshness.

The same technology is widely used on an industrial scale around the world to sterilize medical devices, although much higher doses of radiation are required to completely sterilize them.

Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

Why are irradiated foods safe to eat?

Food irradiation does not render food radioactive, nor does it alter its texture, taste, or appearance, nor does it lose its nutritional value. Extensive research and testing of food irradiation have led to its widespread recognition as a completely safe and effective means of reducing harmful bacteria in food products.

Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

This is why the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have recognized and confirmed the safety of food irradiation.

In accordance with international standards, the Radura logo is used to label irradiated foods. Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

How developed is the food irradiation industry?

Competent authorities in at least 69 countries have approved the irradiation process for more than 60 types of food products, including spices, chicken, beef, seafood, fruits, vegetables and other food products.

Food irradiation facilities must obtain a food processing permit (license) from the appropriate regulatory agency, which determines the specific types of food products that can be irradiated. Approximately one million tons of food are irradiated worldwide each year.

Using Nuclear Science in Food Irradiation

Food irradiation involves exposing food to electromagnetic radiation, particularly X-rays, gamma rays, or electron beams, to preserve its quality, kill harmful bacteria, and control insects. It not only reduces the risk of food poisoning but can also extend the shelf life of foods.

How does irradiation help ensure food safety and food security?

Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

The ability to trade fresh food products and prevent the introduction of invasive pests during export to other countries ensures the integrity of the food supply chain and increases accessibility. Fresh fruits and vegetables are increasingly being irradiated to prevent the spread of invasive insects, as other control methods have significant drawbacks. For example, fumigation chemicals can deplete the ozone layer and leave residues in food products, heat treatment reduces food quality, and cold processing requires extended periods of time, which can be detrimental to foods with a short shelf life.

Food irradiation and climate change

Insect pests have been a problem throughout human history, spreading diseases, destroying crops, and impacting the environment, causing over $70 billion in damage annually. With climate change, insects are moving to new areas, forcing authorities to impose strict quarantine measures—even within countries.

How can food irradiation contribute to economic growth?

Today, food is produced, processed, transported, and consumed in ways that would have been unimaginable just 20 years ago. Not only must we produce more food for a growing global population, but we must also use the food produced more efficiently. A large amount of food never reaches people. Food loss and waste are a pressing problem. According to the FAO, 14% of food worldwide spoils before it reaches stores and markets (worth an estimated $400 billion). Another 17% is wasted in stores and by consumers. Such losses represent a colossal waste of resources, which not only impacts food security and nutrition but also contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, environmental pollution, and the loss of natural ecosystems and biodiversity.

Food safety is a primary public health concern, but it is also crucial for promoting economic development and improving people's quality of life through increased access to domestic, regional, and international markets. Many countries' economies could grow significantly if they were able to prevent food spoilage, reduce the incidence of food poisoning, supply more food to their domestic markets, or export more food and agricultural products. Unfortunately, many foods cannot be traded due to the risk of pests, microbial contamination, or because these products spoil before they reach their destinations.

Illustration: A. Barber Huescar/IAEA

As a result, when developing countries try to sell their food products abroad, they often face significant challenges in complying with the strict quality standards and quarantine measures imposed by major importing countries.

By irradiating food, countries can ensure that their products meet international standards and export them to any market, including those with the strictest import regulations.

Irradiation is a safe and effective technology for solving technical problems in the trade of many food and agricultural products, and can be used either alone or in combination with other technologies.

Irradiation helps strawberries and other fruits stay fresh longer. Photo: Adobe Stock

What role does the IAEA play?

The IAEA promotes the safe and appropriate use of nuclear and related technologies in food and agriculture, contributing to global food security and sustainable agricultural development worldwide.
Joint FAO/IAEA Centre for Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agricultureis dedicated to developing nuclear technologies to improve food safety and quality. The joint FAO/IAEA centre assists countries in developing the capacity of their laboratories and regulatory authorities so that they can trade safe and high-quality food products. The IAEA and FAO collaborate with national authorities, research institutes, and industry stakeholders to conduct research to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of irradiation technologies. Both organizations collaborate closely with Codex Alimentarius Commission to harmonize international food irradiation standards to protect plant health and ensure food safety and quality worldwide.

Read more about food irradiation Here.

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(As prepared for delivery)

Dear Chairperson,

Yesterday, in Cairo, an important step in the right direction was taken, with the agreement on Practical Modalities for the Implementation of Safeguards in Iran, signed by me and His Excellency, the Foreign Minister of Iran, Doctor Abbas Araghchi.

Being a safeguards implementing document, it is not a public one, but given its significance and its meaning allow me to refer in general terms to it and what it means.

As I have repeatedly said, once again last Monday in my opening remarks to the Board, the June attacks of nuclear installations in Iran led to an inevitable suspension of the inspection work in Iran. Complete.

And this, for the first time since the adoption of a CSA between Iran and the Agency.

Resuming this indispensable work would not be an automatic, or a simple bureaucratic process, after what happened.

On top of this, as you all know, the Parliament of Iran adopted a law to suspend cooperation with the Agency.

This risked putting us before the real possibility of Iran failing to observe and comply with its safeguards obligations.

I am sure you will agree with me on the fact that this would not be a situation we would like to see, given its multiple and inevitably negative consequences.

It was encouraging for us to see Iran's declared willingness not to leave the NPT and to continue working inside the international non proliferation regime.

Iran expressed concerns, and it is our duty as an international organization to listen to those, and find ways and means to address them in a form which would reconcile two equally important parameters: Iran's new law, and the existing legal obligations emanating from the NPT safeguards agreement contained in INFCIRC 214.This required dialogue and a thorough understanding of Iran's views.

This is exactly what we have been doing for the past few weeks through a series of bilateral technical consultations, culminating yesterday in my meeting with Dr. Araghchi in Cairo.

In essence, this technical document provides for a clear understanding of the procedures for inspection, notifications, and implementation, fully in line with the relevant provisions of the CSA.

This includes all facilities and installations in Iran, and it also contemplates the required reporting on all the attacked facilities, including the nuclear material present at those.

For this, Iran will follow its recently adopted internal procedures. And that will open the way for the respective inspections and access.

Safeguards approaches to each facility will be reviewed at technical level, always in line with the rights and obligations of Iran and the Agency under the NPT Safeguards Agreement, which are not modified or amended as a result of these practical steps.

Dear colleagues

The technical nature of this document does not diminish its profound significance.

Iran and the Agency will now resume cooperation in a respectful and comprehensive way.

These practical steps, allow me here to state the obvious, need to be implemented now.

There may be difficulties and issues to be resolved, for sure, but we now know that we have the elements and basic understandings to do it.

it is my sincere hope that the resumption of our inspection activity in Iran may serve as a good sign, as a reference, an indication that agreements and understandings are possible and that nothing replaces dialogue if one wants durable, lasting solutions to international challenges like this one.

Finally, a word of gratitude to Egypt, to President Sisi who graciously met and encouraged us to agree, and to my dear friend, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, for his patience, wise advice, and constant encouragement.

Now, it is time to put this agreement in practice, which is exactly what we intend to do. I thank you, Madam Chairperson.

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The first ever international symposium on artificial intelligence in the context of nuclear energy will be held at the IAEA Headquarters in Vienna on 3–4 December 2025.

October 10, 2025

Matt Fisher, IAEA Department of Nuclear Energy

AI opens up opportunities to optimize numerous processes at nuclear power plants. Photo: Adobe Stock

On December 3–4, 2025, the IAEA Headquarters in Vienna will host the first-ever international symposium on artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of nuclear energy. The symposium will explore scenarios for how nuclear power can meet the growing electricity demand from data centers, the driving force behind AI, and explore the many opportunities for leveraging AI to benefit nuclear energy. Given that the rapid development of AI mirrors the dynamics of the recent and ongoing nuclear energy renaissance, this event will be highly relevant and highlight the emerging link between the two industries.

“As AI becomes increasingly integrated into society and nuclear energy development is seen as vital to providing the world with abundant, reliable, and clean energy, these two sectors have an incredible opportunity to maximize their contributions,” said IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi. “Nuclear power plants can provide the reliable, clean electricity needed for the sustainable development of AI and other big data applications, while AI can optimize reactor performance, accelerate the development of advanced fuels, and find other critical applications to help nuclear energy reach its full potential.”

The symposium will bring together stakeholders from around the world, including senior representatives from the nuclear and AI industries, as well as nuclear regulators. The two-day event will feature panel discussions, exhibitions, and side events focused on two themes: "Powering Data Centers with Nuclear Energy" and "Challenges and Prospects for Artificial Intelligence in the Nuclear Sector."

The role of AI in many industries is rapidly growing, and with it, energy demand is soaring. According to the International Energy Agency, data centers consumed approximately 460 TWh of electricity in 2022, and their consumption could exceed 1,000 TWh by 2026. To meet this demand, several major tech companies, including Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, are turning to nuclear energy, specifically entering into power purchase agreements and investing in the development and deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs).

In the nuclear energy industry, AI-based tools are already being used to improve design solutions, optimize construction processes, and enhance operational efficiency. Further integration of AI into these and other areas offers significant potential for the entire industry. However, this must be done with careful consideration of the industry's stringent nuclear safety and security requirements.

Persons wishing to participate in the event, according to general rules, must either be registered with an IAEA Member State or work for one of the organizations invited to participate.

Registration is carried out through the InTouch platform follow the link.

Updates and additional information (in English) can be found Here.

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IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today that a process had been set in motion to help restore external electricity to Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), following frequent contacts with both sides in recent weeks to address the site's latest loss of off-site power during the military conflict.

Since the ZNPP last month once again lost all access to the grid, Director General Grossi has been engaging with the Russian Federation and Ukraine on concrete proposals aimed at enabling the plant to receive the off-site power it needs to cool its six shutdown reactors and its spent fuel.

The focus has been on creating the necessary security conditions for repairs to be carried out on the damaged sections of the 750 kilovolt (kV) Dniprovska and the 330 kV Ferosplavna-1 power lines, located on opposite sides of the frontline near the ZNPP.

“Following intensive consultations, the process leading to the re-establishment of off-site power – through the Dniprovska and Ferosplavna-1 lines – has started,” Director General Grossi said.

"While it will still take some time before the grid connection of the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant has been restored, the two sides have engaged with us in a constructive way to achieve this important objective for the sake of nuclear safety and security. No one stands to gain from a further deterioration in this regard," he said.

For the tenth time during the conflict, the ZNPP lost its connection to the grid on 23 September when its last remaining 750 kV power line was cut, almost five months after the last 330 kV back-up line was also disconnected. Both sides blamed the damage on military activities.

For more than two weeks, Europe's largest nuclear power plant (NPP) has therefore been forced to rely on emergency diesel generators (EDGs) to power its cooling pumps, further challenging an already precarious nuclear safety and security situation at the site.

At the ZNPP, seven EDGs are currently operating and another 13 are on standby. The plant continues to alternate them to produce the electricity it requires, including also for the reactor safety systems.

Based on regularly received nuclear safety data, the IAEA team at the site continues to confirm that there has been no temperature increase within the coolant in the reactors or the spent fuel pools – indicating that the fuel continues to be cooled effectively.

Earlier this week, the team conducted a walkdown to observe the status of the EDGs that were in standby mode at the time. The team also confirmed that the essential service sprinkler ponds – which provide cooling to the reactors and the spent fuel pools – were operating as usual. Radiation levels at the site also remain normal, the team reported.

The team continues to report military activities at various distances from the site. On Tuesday evening, the team members heard five explosions one after the other, occurring close to the site and shaking windows in their building.

The IAEA teams based at the other nuclear sites in Ukraine – Khmelnitskyy, Rivne, South Ukraine and Chornobyl – also report military activities on most days.

On October 4, the team at the Khmelnitskyy NPP was informed that 16 drones were recorded near the site, the closest 5.5km away from the site. The following day, three drones were detected at the same distance north of the South Ukraine NPP.

The Chornobyl site still has no access to the 330 kV power line that was disconnected last week, reportedly due to military strikes on an electrical substation approximately 40km away, near the town of Slavutych.

Under the IAEA's comprehensive assistance program for nuclear safety and security, the Khmelnitskyy NPP this week received radiation survey meters that were procured with funding from the Czech Republic and Japan. It was the 159th delivery of equipment so far, with the value of all deliveries during the conflict now totaling 20 million euros.

See more Director General updates here →

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Through a project implemented by the IAEA in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Azerbaijani scientists and farmers have more than doubled their cotton yields by implementing climate-smart agriculture (CSAA) methods using nuclear and related technologies.

October 7, 2025

Artem Vlasov, IAEA Office of Public Information and Communication

Isotopic techniques are helping Azerbaijani scientists and farmers obtain crucial data to optimize fertilizer use and improve cotton production while protecting soil health. (Photo: M. Zaman/IAEA)

As part of a project implemented by the IAEA in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Azerbaijani scientists and farmers, by implementing climate-smart agriculture (CSAA) methods using nuclear and related technologies, were able to more than double their cotton yield. Thanks to the use of a new "cotton super" variety and the effective implementation of CSAA methods that increase agricultural productivity in a sustainable manner, yields in the pilot project increased from the national average of three tons per hectare to eight tons per hectare.

This pilot project was implemented in 2021 as part of an IAEA technical cooperation project. Its primary focus was developing CSA guidelines for cotton production, training Azerbaijani scientists and innovative farmers in CSA practices, and conducting on-farm pilot field trials. In 2022, another project began, aimed at improving best practices for nutrient application and soil and water management in cotton production. It also aims to increase cotton productivity, as Azerbaijan's lands are particularly vulnerable to climate change and soil degradation. Since 1991, the country's average annual temperature has increased by 0.4 degrees Celsius, while precipitation has decreased, and extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and heat waves have become more frequent.

"Overall, soil nutrient application and water management strategies account for 60% of crop productivity gains," says Mohammad Zaman, a soil scientist at the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre for Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture and the project's lead specialist. "It's important to accurately determine the volume, mode, and stage of growth."

KSAH methods involve the use of isotopic techniques to obtain important data that allows for the optimization of fertilizer use and the improvement of agricultural production efficiency while maintaining soil health.

"When we first started, Azerbaijan's soils were severely degraded, fertility was very low, and the soil lacked a range of essential nutrients necessary for cotton growth," says Zaman. To address this issue, IAEA specialists developed and provided cotton growers with a full range of nuclear and related techniques covering a wide range of crop production aspects, including soil preparation, selection of the best cotton varieties, nutrient application, irrigation of cotton fields, and control of weeds, pests, and diseases.

"Using improved nutrient application, soil, and water management techniques, along with the Cotton Super variety, has allowed us to improve productivity, enhance quality, and increase profits," says Sakhavat Mammadov, a farmer from Azerbaijan who participated in the pilot project and has been implementing COSH practices on his farm for the past two years.

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The IAEA team at Ukraine's Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) today heard multiple rounds of incoming and outgoing shelling, adding to nuclear safety risks at a time when the plant has been without off-site power for nearly two weeks, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said.

The shelling occurred between 14:05 and 15:30 local time, totaling about 15 rounds at near and middle distance from the site, the team reported. Some explosions triggered car alarms, the team said.

Around the same time, the ZNPP informed the IAEA team that two rounds of shelling struck around 1.25 km from the site perimeter, in the vicinity of a fire extinguisher charging station. No casualties were reported and there was no immediate information of any damages.

While today's shelling – a common occurrence near the ZNPP in recent years – did not have an immediate impact on nuclear safety and security, it further underlined the constant dangers facing Europe's largest nuclear power plant during the armed conflict.

"The nuclear safety and security situation is clearly not improving. On the contrary, the risks are growing. The plant has now been without off-site power for almost two weeks, forcing it to rely on emergency diesel generators for the electricity it needs to cool its shutdown reactors and spent fuel. This is an extraordinarily challenging situation," Director General Grossi said.

"I once again call for maximum military restraint near nuclear facilities during the war. I'm also continuing to engage with both the Russian Federation and Ukraine with the aim to restore off-site power to the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant as soon as possible," the Director General said.

In the tenth and longest loss of off-site power suffered by the ZNPP during the conflict, the plant lost the connection to its last remaining 750 kilovolt line on 23 September. Eight emergency diesel generators are currently operating to provide back-up electricity to the site.

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New IAEA project to combat seafood counterfeiting using nuclear technology

Since the 1960s, per capita consumption of seafood—rich in calories, protein, and nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins—has doubled and is projected to double again by 2050.

October 6, 2025

Rola Bou Khozam, Department of Nuclear Sciences and Applications

Fish samples are collected as part of food monitoring programs in Member States. Photo: Maestroni/IAEA

Seafood is one of the most widely traded food commodities globally, contributing to food security and a source of income for the population. Since the 1960s, per capita consumption of seafood—rich in calories, protein, and nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, minerals, and vitamins—has doubled and is projected to double again by 2050.

However, the problem of seafood fraud is a growing global concern. As a result, food safety, consumer confidence, and economic stability are at risk. Through the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre for Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, the Agency is launching a five-yearcoordinated research project(PKI) to assist countries in strengthening food control systems to detect and prevent seafood fraud.

The project aims to protect consumers and producers, as well as to ensure fair trade practices in industries such as fisheries and aquaculture.

The IAEA will use nuclear and related techniques to build scientific capacity, ensure product authenticity, and enhance the sustainability and transparency of seafood supply chains.

As a result of the PKI, it is planned to create reference databases of isotopic and molecular characteristics of various seafood products for use in digital food traceability systems.

What is seafood adulteration?

Seafood counterfeiting often involves substituting expensive species with cheaper alternatives, mislabeling origin or fishing areas, selling farmed fish as wild or previously frozen fish as fresh, and using unauthorized or hidden additives. Seafood counterfeiting can occur at any stage of the supply chain—from production and processing to wholesale/retail distribution and distribution in food service establishments. As supply chains become more complex, monitoring and tracking become increasingly difficult, creating opportunities for fraud.

These criminal acts mislead consumers, hinder trade, and, in some cases, pose a serious health risk. For example, substitution of species can expose consumers to allergens, toxins, parasites, or pathogens. If the origin of seafood is incorrectly stated, the fishing grounds may be contaminated, fishing there may be prohibited, or they may be home to endangered species. Selling thawed fish as fresh poses a risk of microbiological risks or allergic reactions caused by compounds such as histamine. Labeling claiming that a product is organic or conforms to certain religious norms also requires verification of authenticity. To address these challenges, national and international food control systems must employ reliable, appropriate analytical methods.

How is counterfeit seafood detected using nuclear methods?

The Food Safety and Control Laboratory supports countries in the use of nuclear and related analytical methods to strengthen laboratory capacity, enhance regulatory oversight, and facilitate trade in safe, authentic seafood. These technologies can be a valuable tool for detecting fraud. When combined with traditional methods, they create a comprehensive evidence base, enabling more informed action to ensure food safety and authenticity.

One of the most effective methods is analyzing the ratios of stable isotopes of light elements—carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen, and hydrogen—in biological tissue, which reflects environmental conditions and the state of the environment. This allows scientists to determine the geographic origin of fish and verify whether they truly lived in the wild.

The effectiveness of stable isotope analysis can be enhanced by combining it with elemental composition determination methods such as X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, ion beam analysis, neutron activation analysis and mass spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma atomic or optical spectrometry. Scientists also use nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to distinguish between different species, detect additives, and identify fraudulent practices, such as the sale of frozen fish as fresh.

High-resolution mass spectrometry allows scientists to study proteins (proteomics), small molecules (metabolomics), and lipids (lipidomics). The resulting molecular characteristics can be used to identify food safety hazards and verify labeling.

Research objectives

This CRP builds on previous projects on food authenticity and aims to enhance the capacity of countries, particularly low- and middle-income countries, to apply nuclear technologies to combat seafood fraud. The goals of this CRP include strengthening consumer protection, increasing trust in food control systems, and supporting sustainable water resource management.

The objectives of this program include the development and validation of fit-for-purpose analytical methods, the establishment of standardized sampling and preparation protocols, and the generation of new analytical data to address knowledge gaps in the detection of seafood adulteration.

The work under the CRP is planned to result in the creation of reference databases of isotopic and molecular characteristics of various seafood products. These databases will be used in digital food traceability systems to facilitate international trade and regulatory compliance.

Furthermore, the CPI will serve as a platform for expanding expertise, organizing technology transfer, regional cooperation, and training. Participating countries will have the opportunity to align their national seafood labeling regulations with Codex Alimentarius and international standards.

"This IAEA project provides Member States with a valuable opportunity to collaborate to combat fraud and mitigate risks in seafood supply chains using robust nuclear science-based tools. Information on the provenance of seafood can facilitate trade and sustainable development," said Debashish Mazumder, Project Manager for Food Provenance Verification at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation.

Over the course of five years, this CRP programme will produce IAEA scientific publications for sharing with food safety networks, regulators, and industry representatives. The long-term goal of the CRP is not only to ensure the authenticity of seafood but also to promote sustainability and fairness within seafood value chains, support small-scale fisheries, and combat illegal and unregulated fishing.

How to participate in this PKI

Research institutes interested in participating in this CRP should submit their proposal for a research contract or agreement by email to the IAEA Research Contracts Section no later than 31 October 2025, using the appropriate form at DKI web portal.

The IAEA is committed to gender equality and encourages a diverse workforce. Qualified women and candidates from developing countries are strongly encouraged to apply.

For further information related to this PKI, potential candidates should use the feedback form on the pagePKI.

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Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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Five reasons to visit the IAEA Visitor Centre

The IAEA's new Visitor Centre is a first-of-its-kind place to learn about how nuclear science and technology help solve global challenges.

October 1, 2025

The IAEA's new Visitor Centre is a first-of-its-kind place to learn about how nuclear science and technology help solve global challenges.

Visit the new IAEA Visitor Centre in Seibersdorf, Austria, and learn how nuclear science helps solve some of the world's most pressing challenges—from food security and the clean energy transition to combating climate change and protecting global health.

The center features 33 interactive exhibits, digital displays, and real-life examples that demonstrate how the IAEA works with countries around the world to put the "Atoms for Peace and Development" principle into practice.

Don't miss these five key interactive exhibits:

1. Radiation in everyday life

A visitor uses a Geiger counter to measure the radiation emitted by a potassium sample. This is an example of natural radioactivity.

Did you know that the human body contains potassium—in quantities sufficient to trigger some radiation detectors? Due to the presence of potassium-40, the human body is a small but constant source of natural radiation that sensitive devices can detect. Try out a Geiger counter at an interactive exhibit and learn what levels of radiation are considered safe. You'll also learn why radiation isn't just a concern for nuclear power plants, but is a natural part of the environment and even present in the human body.

2. Arsenal of tools: what tools does a warranty inspector have in his toolbox?

Visitors are presented with life-size figures of IAEA safeguards inspectors who explain the special tools they use during verification activities.

When visiting nuclear facilities around the world, IAEA inspectors carry specialized instruments to verify that nuclear material is used exclusively for peaceful purposes. All of these instruments are on display for the first time. You'll meet an inspector, and they—or rather, a life-size image of them on a display—will personally explain the purpose of each instrument. You can touch all the instruments, allowing you to see firsthand how the IAEA safeguards system builds trust and ensures international peace and security.

3. Ocean acidification in close-up

The Ocean Acidification exhibit's interactive display provides real-time information on how rising temperatures and changing pH levels are impacting corals and marine life.

Oceans sustain ecosystems, regulate weather, and provide livelihoods for more than three billion people. However, human activity is altering the oceans' chemistry. Seawater absorbs approximately 23% of the carbon dioxide emitted by human activity, making seawater acidity levels 30% higher than pre-industrial levels. This interactive exhibition showcases in real time how acidification weakens corals, threatens marine life, and disrupts the food chain, and also explores how nuclear technology is helping scientists study and address these issues.

4. What is the difference between nuclear safety and nuclear security?

Visitors to the Plant Breeding stand will learn how tiny doses of radiation can accelerate natural processes, enabling the development of disease-resistant, faster-growing crop varieties that contribute to improved food security.

Nuclear safety and security are essential for protecting people and the environment, but they achieve this goal in different ways. Nuclear safety helps prevent accidents and reduces the risk of radiation exposure, while nuclear security aims to prevent theft, smuggling, and sabotage. Using interactive exhibits at the visitor center, you can test your knowledge and learn how the IAEA helps countries strengthen nuclear safety and security.

You can also visit Incident and Emergency Center— the IAEA's global focal point for emergency preparedness and response, operating 24 hours a day to provide advice and assistance to Member States in the unlikely event of a nuclear or radiological incident.

5. Breeding strong agricultural crops to improve food security

Visitors to the Plant Breeding stand will learn how tiny doses of radiation can accelerate natural processes, enabling the development of disease-resistant, faster-growing crop varieties that contribute to improved food security.

Can science help protect and improve staple crops? Nuclear techniques can accelerate the natural process of plant breeding, enabling the development of varieties that are resistant to drought, pests, and diseases. At the visitor center, you'll learn how these techniques are helping farmers adapt to climate change and how IAEA research is improving food security in many countries.

Plan your visit

The IAEA Visitor Center welcomes organized groups, offering free tours on Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons. Tours last up to two hours and can be tailored to specific interests.

The center is open to everyone and designed with the needs of students and teachers in mind: teachers can request additional STEM materials to connect the center experience with the classroom. Organizational matters are simple and can be resolved upon registration. Free parking is available on site. Transportation assistance is available if needed.

For more information, visit website IAEA Visitor Centre and follow our social media channels, including the visitor center's Instagram account, where news and interesting facts are regularly published.

Related resources

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: International Atomic Energy Agency –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Did you know that every coffee bean has its own story? Using nuclear technology, scientists can trace its origins—from the rain that provided the plant with moisture to the soil that nourished its roots. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), together with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), helps countries use nuclear techniques to ensure high-quality coffee and the authenticity of its origins. Learn how the University of Costa Rica is creating a geographic database for Tarrazú coffee, enabling laboratories around the world to verify the origins of this coffee and maintain its reputation.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.