So, put pen to paper and voice your concerns. Then, please send us a copy of both the article you're responding to, as well as your response. Use this sample letter to the editor and follow the irradiation primer to guide your letter writing. And look over the tips for ways to help ensure your letter makes it into print. Your effort will help keep irradiation away from our food supply.
Irradiation forms new chemicals in food called radiolytic products.
Some are known carcinogens, such as benzene in irradiated beef. Others are unique to the irradiation process and remain unidentified and untested for safety. Irradiation also depletes essential vitamins and nutrients, including vitamins E, C, K, and B-complex. No studies have been done to prove that a long-term diet of irradiated foods is safe. In addition, accidents at irradiation facilities, including radioactive leaks and worker exposure, have already endangered workers and surrounding communities.