Recently, the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) held a hearing on a petition from the American Meat Institute (AMI) to classify low-penetration, low-dose electron beam irradiation on raw beef as a processing aide. 

For those who are not familiar, the USDA already allows irradiation of beef.  However, currently it must be labeled as such.  This petition is related to the application of low dose electron beam treatment to the surface of raw beef, without a causing any material effect on the product itself, thereby allowing it to be classified as a processing aide.  If given this distinction, the package would no longer have to be labeled as "treated by irradiation."  The hearing was intriguing and demonstrated passionate viewpoints on both sides of the aisle.  One resounding take-away, though, is the need for further research on this application.

As we have discussed in the past, AEB is not active in the food irradiation market but we recognize the potential impact on food economics and public safety.  We support research and process innovation that ensures a safe food supply with full consumer support.  We support the call for further research into food irradiation and are always interested in talking with researchers in this arena.