Food irradiation: The past fifty years as prologue to tomorrow

Abstract

Food Irradiation is a process ready for use. Backing that statement are more than four decades of research and development that have provided the extensive knowledge necessary to proceed confidently with its utilization. Research done since 1943 has demonstrated that treating foods with irradiation can provide considerable advantages: preserves foods; decontaminates food; controls maturation; alters chemical composition for quality improvement; produces no toxic residues in foods; maintains full nutritive value of foods; and maintains sensory quality. Yet, despite government approval, the United States food industry has not made a significant use of food irradiation. This article also discusses government actions that have affirmed its safety and utility.