Enhancing Food Security, Safety, and Sustainability via the Application of Radiation Technology

In the face of growing global challenges such as population growth, climate change, and resource limitations, ensuring food security, safety, and sustainability has become an imperative. This chapter explores the potential of radiation technology as a transformative tool in addressing these critical issues in food production and preservation. Radiation technology, encompassing processes such as irradiation and nuclear techniques, presents a powerful set of tools for enhancing food safety by effectively eliminating pathogens, pests, and spoilage microorganisms. Furthermore, it extends the shelf life of perishable food items, reducing post-harvest losses and contributing to overall food security. This chapter reviews recent advancements in radiation technology applied to food security and safety, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize the agri-food sector. The discussion covers both the scientific principles behind the technology and practical applications, highlighting success stories and challenges.