The Atomic Show #041 - Food Irradiation
Food irradiation can prevent food borne illness caused by microorganisms like eColi. Shane and Rod discuss the technology, motivation, and controversy surrounding the application.
(MP3 - 16.8 MB - 49 min)
Listen to Atomic Show #041 Here!
It is possible to almost completely eliminate a number of different pathogens from food by treating that food with exposure to electron or gamma radiation. The process is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for a number of meats, fruits, vegetables and spices. It is used to treat food destined for consumption by NASA astronauts, to sanitize nearly all spices sold in grocery stores, and to treat food sold under a number of different brands.
After reading a number of articles about another outbreak of E.Coli in the US, Shane and I decided that it was time to talk about irradiation and to share what we know about the process. You can also find out more by visiting the following links.