16.2. Definition of Irradiation
Irradiated foods are foods that have been treated with ionizing irradiation. This process is a physical treatment that consists of exposing foods to the direct action of electronic, electromagnetic rays to ensure the innocuity of foods and to prolong shelf life. The ionizing irradiation that is being discussed is part of the electromagnetic spectrum, which has radio waves at one end and high-energy X-rays and gamma rays at the other. In the middle there are the visible light rays, with infrared and UV rays on either side. Between the radio and infrared frequencies are the microwaves that are becoming common in every household. Since all these are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, they will have several things ...
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