Question

Which of the following statement(s) is/are TRUE for a package of gamma-irradiated (7.5 kGy) whole chicken?

• A. Nutritional quality of the product deteriorates after irradiation.
• B. Spores of C. botulinum can survive in the irradiated product.
• C. ‘Radura’ symbol does not ensure safety of the irradiated product for consumption.
• D. Energy needed for the irradiation process is much higher than that required for freezing of the product.

Hint:

Gamma irradiation can effectively reduce microbial load but does not guarantee the destruction of all pathogens, including C. botulinum spores.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, C

- (B) Gamma irradiation at doses like 7.5 kGy is effective in killing many pathogens in food, but it is not guaranteed to destroy all spores, especially of C. botulinum, the bacterium responsible for botulism. Some spores of this pathogen can survive the irradiation process and pose a health risk.
- (C) The ‘Radura’ symbol, which is used to indicate that a product has been irradiated, does not guarantee that the product is entirely safe for consumption. The irradiation process primarily aims to reduce microbial load but may not eliminate all pathogens, especially in cases of improper processing.
- (A) Nutritional quality can be affected by irradiation, particularly with sensitive vitamins such as vitamin C and B-vitamins, though the overall impact is typically minimal for a well-controlled process.
- (D) The energy required for gamma irradiation is lower compared to the energy required for freezing the product. Freezing typically involves lower temperatures and more energy consumption than the irradiation process. Thus, the correct answer is (B) and (C).