Gamma irradiation
A) has not been approved for use on food.
B) can be used to either sterilize or pasteurize, depending on the dose of radiation.
C) leaves some radioactive particles in the treated substance.
D) usually kills by generating heat and denaturing proteins.
E) frequently causes a product to become carcinogenic.

Question

Gamma irradiation
A) has not been approved for use on food.
B) can be used to either sterilize or pasteurize, depending on the dose of radiation.
C) leaves some radioactive particles in the treated substance.
D) usually kills by generating heat and denaturing proteins. 
E) frequently causes a product to become carcinogenic.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Gamma irradiation can be used to either sterilize or pasteurize food depending on the dose of radiation. It works by damaging the DNA of microorganisms, causing them to die or become unable to reproduce. However, it does not leave any radioactive particles in the treated substance, and it does not usually cause the product to become carcinogenic. In addition, it does not kill by generating heat and denaturing proteins. While gamma irradiation has been approved for use on some types of food, its use is regulated by governmental agencies such as the FDA to ensure that it is safe for human consumption.

Gamma Irradiation