Technical Challenges and Research Directions in Electronic Food Pasteurization
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This chapter provides a "road map" for those involved in research and development activities related to electronic pasteurization. Foodborne diseases around the world are at unacceptable levels. Many of these infections are preventable by improved food production methods, improved food processing methods, and improved food preparation and consumption practices within households. Given the concerns associated with the transport, storage, and disposal of cobalt-60 (Co-60) or cesium-137 (Cs-137) isotope sources, some believed that electron beam (E-beam)/X-ray sources would be the food pasteurization technology of choice in both the developed and developing regions of the world. The fact that ionizing irradiation is the only technology known to be totally effective with frozen products in their final packaged form without discernible damage makes it an even more attractive technology. The term "electronic pasteurization" has been coined for the pasteurization achieved by E-beam and X-ray technologies. Though the use of E-beam as a pasteurization process has been thoroughly validated in a number of laboratories worldwide, there are still some lingering technical issues that limit its true applicability. These issues would become critical as the types of foods, packaging materials, pathogens of concern, and processing methods change or evolve in the future. This chapter highlights some of these technical challenges and potential research questions. This edition first published 2013 2013 Blackwell Publishing and the Institute of Food Technologists.
