Irradiation
Irradiation
Food irradiation is strictly regulated. At Eurofins Food & Feed Testing, we offer precise, accredited analytical testing to determine whether raw materials or finished food products have been treated with ionising radiation. Benefit from clear, reliable insights into your supply chains.
Key services
- Detection of irradiation treatment using validated methods such as:
- Photostimulated Luminescence (PSL)
- Thermoluminescence (TL)
- Accredited laboratory analysis in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025
- Short turnaround times
- Testing of a wide range of food matrices, for instance:
- Spices, herbs, seasonings
- Seafood and meat products
- Dried fruits and vegetables
- Composite and processed foods
- Support for import/export compliance with CH and international regulations
- Clear and comprehensive reporting for documentation and audits
The analyses are carried out by laboratories within the broader Eurofins network.
Additional services
- Consulting on regulatory labelling requirements (“irradiated” or “treated with ionising radiation”)
- Verification of irradiation facilities and processes for suppliers
- Batch screening and routine monitoring programmes
- Customised testing strategies for complex product portfolios
- Training and webinars on food irradiation and detection methods
Global use of food irradiation for extended shelf life
Approximately 200,000 tonnes of food are irradiated each year, primarily herbs and spices. Over 40 countries use the irradiation of food and supplements, or their treatment with ionising radiation, to prolong stability. This procedure can be applied to a variety of different materials:
- To kill microorganisms in herbs and spices
- To prevent sprouting and germination of potatoes, onions and garlic
- To kill or sterilise insects in cereals, dried fruit, nuts and vegetables
- To defer maturing and ripening in fruit and vegetables
- To prolong the date-of-expiry by killing microorganisms in meat and fish
Irradiated food must be labelled as such in Switzerland.
Get in touch
Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, or do you need tailored analytical support? Contact us today.