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The overall objective of this proposal is to develop a protocol to accurately calculate uniform dose distribution in a wide variety of foods under high energy electron beam irradiation. The specific objectives of this proposal are to: <OL> <LI> Obtain detailed microscopic information (structure and composition) of complex shaped food products using CAT scan technology; <LI>Predict accurately dose distribution in the food products using Monte Carlo electron transport theory; <LI> Compare simulated and measured dose distributions for the food items; <LI> Develop a treatment plan for food irradiation using high energy (10 MeV) electron beam technology to insure uniform dose distribution in nonhomogeneous and/or irregularly shaped food products. </ol>
CAT scan technology will be used to obtain 3-D images of the food products for structure determination. Monte Carlo simulation based on electron transport theory will be used to simulate irradiation dose. Two high energy (10 MeV) electron beam linear accelerators will be used to obtain experimental irradiation data for validation of the developed simulation. We will develop a food product composition and microorganism D-values data base and incorporate this information as input in the simulation tool. This will result in the development of a tool to simulate the dose distribution in selected complex shaped foods using high energy electron beam irradiation for in-depth penetration. Tests food products will include mushrooms, whole chicken or turkey carcasses, and pieces within retail packages.
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Irradiation has been identified as one solution that enhances food safety through the reduction of potential pathogens. Yet, despite the advances in irradiation methods available, the technology is not ready for application to all types of foods such as mushrooms, whole chicken carcasses, or pieces within retail packages. Satisfactory irradiation of these food items requires strict process control to ensure that the dose delivered to all parts of the treated product falls within some specified range. Hence it is necessary to assess the ability of an irradiation system to deliver the required dose to the products intended for treatment. Therefore, a protocol for proper handling of the food item and e-beam configuration must be developed to achieve optimum uniformity in dose distribution. This will produce a dose sufficient to ensure food safety. This project focuses on the development of a sound procedure for accurate irradiation of foods using high energy electron beam sources. To this end, we will develop a treatment plan to accurately calculate uniform dose distribution in complex shaped foods; test the accuracy of the plan; and develop a protocol for irradiation treatment to insure uniform dose distribution in complex shaped food products. Our long-term goal is to develop a technology suitable for treating agricultural commodities into safe and long-lasting products. The purpose of this study is to understand the mechanisms responsible for dose distribution within irradiated complex shaped food items to improve food safety.