Problems with Cobalt-60. All ionizing radiation, including that of cobalt-60, is known to cause cancer. Therefore, exposures to gamma radiation from cobalt-60 result in an increased risk of cancer. Because it emits such strong gamma rays, external exposure to cobalt-60 is also considered a significant threat. read more
For “disadvantage” to be meaningful, one must compare it with something. Stephen Frantz’s answer, besides pointing this out, answers the question well, so I will add one other point, partly motivated by personal experience. read more
Cobalt-60's ability to sterilize foods is due to its emission of gamma rays. They are able to destroy bacteria and other pathogens without destroying the edible product. The technique of using cobalt-60 to sterilize food is sometimes called cold pasteurization. read more
All ionizing radiation, including that of cobalt-60, is known to cause cancer. Therefore, exposures to gamma radiation from cobalt-60 result in an increased risk of cancer. read more
Cobalt-60 is also used to treat abnormal conditions of blood vessels and tumors that would otherwise be inoperable. Additionally, cobalt-60 is used to detect flaws in metal parts in what is known as industrial radiography. read more