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08 October 2008

Food Irradiation

Why do we use radiation on food?

Food is irradiated to kill germs that might make us ill. In the last several years there have been a number of incidents of food poisoning by E. coli, salmonella, and other organisms. Food irradiation helps to kill these germs. The biggest effect of food irradiation on society is an expected significant decrease in sickness and deaths due to food poisoning. Another benefit of irradiation is increasing the shelf life of foods because germs that cause food to spoil have been killed.

What are the effects of radiation on food?

During food irradiation, the food is exposed to very high levels of radiation that are sufficient to kill just about all of the germs that might be present. It is important to know that this radiation does NOT stay with the food. The radiation used is similar to microwave radiation or to visible light. When we turn the lights off in a room, the room stays dark. While the light was on, items in the room were exposed to the light energy but they don't become a source of light themselves. Similarly, gamma ray photons expose food to radiation but the food does not become radioactive.

What are the risks to people who eat irradiated food?

There are no radiation-related risks. Really, the risks are from eating foods that are not irradiated-because of the chance of food poisoning. Irradiation does not make food radioactive. It does not make food dangerous and it does not create dangerous levels of harmful chemicals. There are some chemical reactions that take place due to irradiation, but there are chemical reactions that take place during cooking, too. And, in fact, chemical changes due to cooking are far more numerous than those due to irradiation.

Are irradiated foods still nutritious?

Yes. At low doses of radiation, nutrient losses are either not measurable or, if they can be measured, not significant.

Are irradiated foods on the market now?

Yes. They are mostly dried spices, some fruits, and a limited amount of meats.

How can irradiated foods be identified in the supermarket so I know whether or not I'm buying some?

By regulation, irradiated food must be labeled with a logo along with the words "Treated with Radiation" or "Treated by Irradation."

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