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 EU and international regulations
  • Clear and comprehensive reporting for documentation and audits

Additional services

In addition to our core analytical services, Eurofins Food & Feed Testing provides a wide range of solutions related to irradiation:

  • 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 in order to:

  • kill microorganisms in herbs and spices
  • prevent sprouting and germination of potatoes, onions and garlic
  • kill or sterilise insects in cereals, dried fruit, nuts and vegetables
  • defer maturing and ripening in fruit and vegetables
  • prolong the date-of-expiry by killing microorganisms in meat and fish

According to Directive 1999/3/EC, irradiated food must be labelled as such in all EU member states.

Your Competence Centre for food irradiation

Eurofins Analytik GmbH in Germany is the designated Competence Centre for irradiation analysis within our Eurofins Food & Feed Testing network. Backed by decades of experience and cutting-edge technology, our team of specialised experts delivers high-quality results with speed and precision. As part of the global Eurofins network, our Hamburg-based laboratory ensures access to international expertise and harmonised standards.

Legal framework and guidelines*

* Regulatory information is provided for general guidance only and may not reflect the most recent regulatory changes. Always consult official sources for up‑to‑date legislation. For market‑specific support, please contact your local Eurofins Food Testing laboratory. Our specialists offer tailored support through horizon scanning and food safety consultancy services.

Get in touch

Would you like to find out more about our testing solutions, access our competence centre services, or do you need tailored analytical or consultancy support?

Contact Eurofins Food Testing UK today to speak to our experts by submitting an enquiry form or calling +44 (0) 845 604 6740.

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