What method uses ionizing radiation to kill bacteria and parasites in food?

Irradiation is the method that utilizes ionizing radiation to eliminate bacteria, parasites, and other pathogens in food products. This technology involves exposing food to high-energy radiation, which disrupts the DNA of microorganisms, rendering them inactive and unable to reproduce. The process is effective in extending the shelf life of food and enhancing food safety without significantly affecting the nutritional quality or taste of the product.

Other methods, such as pasteurization, heat food to specific temperatures to kill harmful microorganisms but do not involve radiation. Fermentation is a biochemical process that uses microorganisms to convert sugars into acids, gases, or alcohol but does not focus on killing pathogens through radiation. Canning preserves food through heat treatment in a sealed container, but again, it does not involve ionizing radiation. Thus, irradiation stands out distinctly as the method focused on utilizing ionizing radiation specifically for the purpose of food safety.