The USDA says it makes the meat safer and more resistant to spoilage. O157, the deadly form of E. coli, and reduces the prevalence of other bacteria such as listeria, salmonella and camplyobacter. The technology has already been approved for use in produce, spices and poultry. The USDA says irradiation of food does not increase human exposure to radiation, contending the energy used is not strong enough to cause the food to become radioactive. Antinuclear groups have opposed using irradiation in food, and some health advocates are afraid using irradiation might reduce other safety techniques such as proper handling and plant sanitation.
Irradiated meat is likely to be introduced gradually by meat processors in select markets.
Irradiated meat is expected to cost an extra three to five cents a pound until it becomes widely available. Colorado Boxed Beef Co., a Florida meat processor, is expected to be one of the first to offer the irradiated meat, selling through stores in the Southeast. In November 1998, the company recalled 359,000 pounds of beef products due to possible e. Coli contamination. The nation's largest beef processor, IBP Inc. said it will begin to test market irradiated beef patties next month. Anther meat processor, Excel Corps said it plans to start supplying its food service customers with irradiated beef the first week in March.