The Surprising Role of Onions and Potatoes in Nuclear Bomb Tests

Out of 195 countries, only nine countries possess nuclear weapons, and India is among these powerful nations. While many are familiar with fascinating facts about nuclear bombs and their testing, not everyone knows that onions and potatoes have a unique role in these tests.

During India’s nuclear tests at Pokhran, reports suggest that vast quantities of onions and potatoes were utilized. Following India’s lead, several other nations have also incorporated onions and tomatoes in their nuclear bomb testing processes. Here’s how these common vegetables contribute to nuclear tests.

Onions’ Contribution to Nuclear Testing

Onions are employed in nuclear tests primarily to mitigate radiation exposure. Nuclear explosions release various types of radiation, including alpha, beta, and gamma rays. Onions have the capacity to absorb these harmful radiations, which is why millions of tons of onions are buried at the testing sites. Controlling radiation is crucial because exposure can cause immediate destruction to human blood tissues.

Research indicates that onion extract can enhance the survival rate of cells subjected to radiation. Onions are rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, giving them strong antioxidant and anti-genotoxic properties.

Interestingly, the roots of onions are used to study the impact of radiation from atomic bomb tests, a fact that many may not be aware of. Onions can even measure gamma radiation levels while stored. A recent innovation by the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) has developed a method to prolong the shelf life of onions using a combination of radiation and cold storage.

Potatoes’ Role in Nuclear Testing

Potatoes also play a significant part in nuclear tests by helping to lessen radiation effects. They have been utilized to assess how semi-perishable foods react to nuclear explosions. Recent findings from plant science researchers at the University of Tennessee reveal that potatoes absorb gamma radiation remarkably well. This discovery could lead to the creation of plant-based sensors designed to safeguard communities from dangerous radiation exposure.