The Government of Canada has decided to permit the sale of fresh and frozen raw ground beef treated with irradiation.
Health Canada published the new regulations on Wednesday after it concluded that irradiation would be a safe and effective treatment to reduce harmful bacteria in ground beef.
Irradiation is an optional tool that the food industry can use to treat certain foods to maintain quality or enhance safety. The United States has permitted the irradiation of fresh and frozen ground beef since 1999, and more than 60 countries worldwide permit irradiation of various foods.
During irradiation, food is exposed to low levels of a type of energy called ionizing radiation. This can reduce harmful bacteria, such as E. coli, Salmonella and Campylobacter, prevent spoilage and give food a longer shelf life.
According to the Government of Canada, ground beef that is irradiated retains its nutritional value, taste, texture and appearance.
All irradiated foods must be labelled.
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