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Summary: For the professional and consumer alike!
Review: This is the best I have read on this topic to date!This book begins with "Since the philosophy of this book is that food irradiation needs no further justification, the wholesomeness of irradiated foods is covered from a historical perspective only" on page 12. Given the near hysteria some irresponsible advocacy groups have engaged in over this topic, perhaps more could be done in this text to counteract the bad science these groups employ. The conclusion in the food irradiation chemistry chapter states that "It is important to note that radiolytic changes that occur in food on irradiation are minimal and are no more significant than other food processing technologies". That would include cooking which creates many more profound changes in food. There are few of us that would consider going without cooking, therefore it is wise to consider this additional food safety tool. There are many topics that receive in-depth treatment in this tome including: the differences between machine source and isotope treatments, meat and poultry irradiation, process control in facilities, irradiation of spices and minimally processed foods, and irradiation for phytosanitary purposes. Each topic is addressed by an expert in the field and contains historical data and a prognosis for the future. Each chapter has a bibliography that is a treasure in itself. The future of irradiation depends on the public's willingness to accept it. Books like this do a tremendous amount to dispel the irrational, unfounded concerns voiced by some and pave the way for widespread use. If you read only one book about food irradiation, make it this book.
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