Thuy-Khue Tran

Mrs. Benson

29 May 2008

Chemistry

Pros and Cons of Food Irradiation

        The world faces the problem of global starvation; this issue has spread to millions all around the globe.  Efforts to solve the problem have been proven ineffectual. However, scientists have discovered nuclear chemistry may be the answer to the crisis of world hunger. The specific method elongates the freshness of produce and other foods by utilizing ionizing radiation. Shortwaves damage the microorganisms that accelerate the rate of food spoilage. Food irradiation has remedied the scarcity of food but it might cause more harm than good.

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        The application of nuclear chemistry enables the world to preserve produce, meats and dairy products for a longer period of time while keeping the same quality and taste. Gamma rays destroy the majority of bacteria and fungi in the food to sanitize the product of germs, making it safe for patients in the hospital to consume because they need to be surrounded by a sterile environment. Now, irradiation can revolutionize the food industry; it has already been approved in 37 countries for more than 40 products because it drastically increases the shelf-life of foods. Hence, irradiated fruits can be exported ...

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