The use of food irradiation

Abstract

Preserving food has always been a need for humans. There are different technologies which are used nowadays for this purpose which have improved by time. Food preservation is important because it usually prevents the growth of fungi, bacteria and other micro-organisms and also retards the oxidation of fats which cause rancidity. It also includes processes which inhibit natural ageing. The food so treated will maintain the natural colour which can be lost during food preparation e.g. the enzymatic browning reaction in apples which causes browning when they are cut. Some methods of food preservation are freezing, pasteurisation, control of pH and chemical additives. Food irradiation is also another method of preserving food, although it is accepted by health organisations such as the WHO and some governments, it is not as commonly used as the other techniques. Notwithstanding, there IS growing international pressure from the irradiation industry and organisations to increase the use of food irradiation. This essay will focus on food irradiation and its uses. Some information on food irradiation together with historical background will be outlined in the literature review. The following will also be described and reviewed: mapping of a food irradiation facility, the equipment used and also different types of doses, different radiations, different methods being used (by gamma rays and X-rays) and types of food processed using food irradiation. Safety issues such as health and safety measures, methods used to detect free radicals and radiolytic products after the process and action plans that might be carried out in case of traces of radiation, such as recalling and withdrawal of products, the way the food will be disposed will also be characterised. The final part of the essay will deal with the effect of irradiated food regarding the toxicological considerations, microbiological and nutritional perspective, and packaging and labelling. The controversy that is associated with food irradiation process will also be discussed. Finally the legislation, including Maltese, European Union and United States of America will be briefly described and discussed.