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Irradiation as a method for decontaminating food. A review
1Department of Refrigeration and Livestock Products Technology, University of Horticulture and Food Industry, Budapest, Hungary.
International Journal of Food Microbiology
|December 16, 1998
Summary
Ionizing radiation effectively eliminates harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli from foods. This safe and efficient food decontamination method enhances safety without altering food quality.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Microbiology
- Radiation Technology
Background:
- Rising outbreaks of foodborne illnesses from nonsporeforming pathogenic bacteria globally.
- Limitations of current hygienic practices and primary processing in eliminating major foodborne pathogens.
- Need for effective end-product decontamination methods for raw and minimally processed foods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate ionizing radiation as a versatile and effective food decontamination method.
- To assess the efficacy of radiation treatment against key foodborne pathogens and parasites.
- To determine the impact of irradiation on food quality and the sensitivity of surviving microorganisms.
Main Methods:
- Application of ionizing radiation at specific doses (2-7 kGy for bacteria, 0.15-0.7 kGy for parasites).
- Testing on various food products including poultry, red meat, egg, and fishery products, as well as dry ingredients.
- Evaluation of sensory, nutritional, and technical qualities post-irradiation.
- Assessment of the stress response of surviving microorganisms to subsequent treatments.
Main Results:
- Effective elimination of nonsporeforming pathogens (Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli O157:H7) and parasites without compromising food quality.
- Successful decontamination of frozen foods, dry ingredients, herbs, and enzyme preparations.
- Enhanced sensitivity of surviving microorganisms to environmental stresses and processing treatments.
- Demonstrated viability as an alternative to chemical fumigation.
Conclusions:
- Ionizing radiation is a safe, efficient, and environmentally sound technology for decontaminating a wide range of food products.
- Irradiation significantly enhances food safety, particularly for minimally processed and convenience foods.
- The technology is emerging globally with increasing regulatory approvals for irradiated foods.
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