Gamma Radiation Processing Plants

Gamma Radiation Processing Plants

 

Gamma Radiation Processing Plants

Context: 

  1. In the country, 26 Gamma Radiation Processing Plants are in operation for the irradiation of diverse products in the commercial, semi-government, and government sectors.
  2. According to the government, private companies have already been given access to gamma irradiation technology for food preservation.

About 

Gamma Radiation Processing Plants

  1. Sterilization of healthcare items, hygienization of spices, herbal products, and cosmetics, and disinfestation of grains, cereals, and pulses are all common uses for radiation processing. 
  2. It is also used to keep bulbs, tubers, and rhizomes from sprouting. The radiation source for this experiment is cobalt-60. 
  3. As opposed to chemical processes, the technique does not cause any radioactivity in food and does not leave any dangerous or toxic radioactive residues on meals.

Advantages

  1. Because radiation processing is a cold process, unlike heat, it may be used on agricultural products without affecting their freshness.
  2. Radiation does not impact the nutritional value, flavour, texture, or appearance of food in any way.
  3. Cobalt-60 radiation does not cause radioactivity in food and does not leave any damaging or dangerous radioactive residues on foods, like chemical fumigants do.
  4. It is a very effective procedure due to the highly penetrating quality of the radiation energy.
  5. Hygiene and shelf-life can be improved by treating pre-packaged foods.
  6. The radiation processing plants are environmentally friendly and safe for workers and patrons.

THE RADIATION PROCESSING PURPOSE

  • Food processing requires the application of short wave radiation in a controlled manner.
  • The electromagnetic spectrum includes radio waves, microwaves, and other long-wavelength radiations.
  • Infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light are all types of light. 
  • Gamma rays, accelerated electrons, and X-rays are examples of ionising radiations.
  • Food processing with radiation can achieve a variety of goals in various foods. 

The following are some of the most significant advantages of food processing using radiation:

  • Disinfestation of dry storage goods by insects
  • To circumvent quarantine barriers in fruits and vegetables, Phyto sanitation is used.
  • Inhibition of sprouting in tubers, bulbs, and rhizomes
  • a delay fruit ripening and senescence
  • an increase in shelf-life by eliminating spoiling bacteria
  • and the elimination of diseases and parasites.

Source: PIB
Syllabus: GS 3 (Food Processing Industries)

Download Yojna IAS Daily Current Affairs of 21th August 2021

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