The Truth Behind Irradiated Foods
While putting away your groceries, you may have noticed food labels that say, “Irradiated to destroy harmful microbes.” If the sticker is on a brand of food that you usually buy, you probably don’t think anything of it. After all, it’s a brand you trust and it promises that you’ve been safeguarded against something harmful. But, what does this mean? What is irradiation and what’s so harmful about the microbes?
Food irradiation is a technology that involves using ionizing radiation. During the irradiation process, foods are briefly exposed to a specific dose of a radiant energy source such as gamma rays or electron beams within a shielded facility.
These technologies are used to kill parasites and insect pests (i.e. microbes) that may be in food, greatly improving food safety. The list of foods that are FDA-approved for irradiation has been expanding since 1963. The most recent addition is that of red meat products. Tainted beef can cause serious illness and death. In fact, you may recall that in 1993, E. coli O157:H7-contaminated hamburgers sold by a fast-food chain were linked to the deaths of four children and hundreds of illnesses. To help combat this public health problem, in 1997 the Food and Drug Administration approved treating red meat products with a measured dose of radiation.
Food irradiation also helps keep foods fresher longer by delaying ripening, inhibiting spoilage and minimizing contamination. For example, treatment of strawberries followed by refrigeration can eliminate mold and effectively increase their shelf life for up to 14 days.
Although irradiation reduces the likelihood of food borne illness, is not a substitute for proper food manufacturing and handling procedures.
The next time you see an “Irradiated to destroy harmful microbes” label on food packaging, think about this: more than 50 years of research has demonstrated that irradiating food can safely and effectively kill harmful bacteria in foods, without compromising nutritional value. Food irradiation is allowed in over 50 countries worldwide and is endorsed by the World Health Organization, the American Medical Association and many other organizations.
- Modern Menus
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