Irradiation

According to The Canadian Food Inspection Agency:

“Food irradiation is the process of exposing food to a controlled amount of energy called "ionizing radiation." There are three different types of radiation allowed: Gamma rays, X-rays and electron beam radiation.”

The reasons for using irradiation are listed as:

• preventing food poisoning by reducing the level of harmful bacteria

• preventing spoilage by destroying bacteria, mold and yeast

• increasing shelf live​

Everyone wants to avoid food poisoning and harmful bacteria. The problem is that irradiation destroys living enzymes and nutrients in the product.

Foods currently permitted to be irradiated and sold in Canada are:

• potatoes

• onions

• wheat

• flour

• whole wheat flour

• whole or ground spices

• dehydrated seasoning

According to the Canadian Organic Growers any food product that is certified organic under the Organic Product Regulations will not have been exposed to irradiation.

Avoid irradiation all together - buy local & organic!