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From: steiny@scc.UUCP (Don Steiny)
Newsgroups: net.med,net.physics,net.cooks
Subject: Re: sterilizing food with radiation
Message-ID: <560@scc.UUCP>
Date: Sun, 17-Nov-85 16:17:39 EST
Article-I.D.: scc.560
Posted: Sun Nov 17 16:17:39 1985
Date-Received: Mon, 18-Nov-85 07:44:16 EST
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Xref: watmath net.med:2768 net.physics:3588 net.cooks:5426

> I understand that preliminary tests are being done on the use of
> radiation to sterilize food. 
	No - it has been used on spices and pork for years.

	The food is exposed to a source of
> radiation which breaks up complex molecules such as proteins and
> nucleic acids, killing germs and other living agents which cause food
> to spoil. Afterwards, the food is not radioactive and is supposed to
> be edible. My question is, are the results of breaking large molecules
> at random places likely to be completely innocuous?  
>  Phil Ngai +1 408 749-5720

	I don't believe that is how it works.  It is not supposed
to alter the chemical structure.   Supposedly there is a difference
but it is so small that it is barely detectable with our most
sensitive measuring methods.

	I would be interested in reading more about this on
the net because it is a very emotional issue here in Santa
Cruz.  Some people claim that it would reduce food spoilage
in the world and be a great benefit to humankind, and others
say that it would posion everyone.  Most of the claims
on either side are presented in a non-technical fashion
and I would love more information.
-- 
scc!steiny
Don Steiny @ Don Steiny Software 
109 Torrey Pine Terrace
Santa Cruz, Calif. 95060
(408) 425-0382