Irradiation

Irradiation is a process in which food is exposed briefly to a radiant energy source in an effort to kill harmful bacteria, eliminate insect pests, inhibit further maturation of fresh foods, extend shelf life, and sterilize packaging materials. Similar to sending luggage through an airport scanner, the food is passed in containers quickly through a radiation field. Commercial irradiation equipment uses gamma rays, electron beams, or X-rays. Federal rules require irradiated foods to be labeled as such. Irradiating food does not eliminate all risk of food-borne illness, and proper handling is still required.