ARS | Publication request: Ionizing radiation

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: August 20, 2011
Publication Date: February 1, 2012
Citation: Fan, X. 2012. Ionizing radiation. V. Gomez-Lopez (ed.) Decontamination of fresh and minimally processed produce. Wiley-Blackwell Publishing. Ames, IA. Book Chapter. 379-405.

Technical Abstract: This chapter gives a comprehensive review on ionizing irradiation of fresh fruits and vegetables. Topics include principles of ionizing radiation, its effects on pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms, shelf-life, sensory quality, nutritional and phytochemical composition, as well as physiologic and enzymatic mechanisms of irradiation-induced changes. Radiation resistances of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella spp. and Listeria spp., and radiation tolerances of various types of fresh and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables are tabulated. Toxicity and regulatory aspects of irradiation are briefly discussed.