AlbSoft

TOMATOES zapped with radiation could be heading towards your lunchbox or dinner table. Food Standards Australia New Zealand has declared the treatment -- to destroy insects and bacteria, but which has been linked to pet deaths -- is safe for fresh tomatoes and capsicums.
FSANZ spokeswoman Lorraine Belanger said irradiated food passed through a radiation field generated by high-energy electron beams, X-rays or gamma rays.
Irradiated food must be labelled and notices placed at sales areas or on menus.
Queensland's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry wants the option of an alternative fruit fly control after restrictions were imposed on dimethoate and fenthion, two common chemical insecticides.
"Permitting the irradiation of tomatoes and capsicums will allow domestic and international trade in tomatoes and capsicums to continue without disruption," FSANZ decided.
"Decades of research worldwide has shown that irradiation of food is a safe and effective way to kill bacteria in foods, extend its shelf life and reduces insect infestation," the nation's food regulator said.
Ministers responsible for food regulation have until mid-May to decide on a formal approval.
While herbs, spices, some herbal teas, some tropical fruits and persimmons are already allowed to be irradiated, the bulk has been exported rather than eaten in Australia.
The Federal Government banned irradiation of imported cat food in 2009 after dozens of cats consuming high doses of dry food suffered neurological damage or death.
FSANZ says a dose of up to one kilogray is suitable for tomatoes and capsicums -- well below the levels in pet food.
Anti-irradiation campaigners, including Friends of the Earth Australia, have raised concerns about potential nutritional deficiencies, immune system disorders, and genetic damage.