________ is a food preservation process that exposes food to radiation energy, preventing microbial growth.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Food irradiation exposes food to a controlled amount of radiation energy, such as gamma rays, electron beams, or X-rays, to eliminate or reduce microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses, spoilage, or quality losses. It does not make the food radioactive or change its nutritional value, taste, or appearance significantly. Food irradiation is approved by several international organizations and regulatory agencies, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for certain foods, such as spices, herbs, fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, and poultry. However, some people raise concerns about the safety, efficacy, and ethical aspects of food irradiation, and prefer alternative methods of food preservation, such as freezing, canning, drying or fermenting.

________ Is a Food Preservation Process That Exposes Food to Radiation