Human Consumption
Using low dose Gamma irradiation, STERIS Applied Sterilization Technologies (AST) is able to safely and effectively control both pathogenic micro-organisms and insects and pests in food for human consumption.
Control of Pathogenic Microorganisms
Herbs and spices are often heavily contaminated by pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, molds, and yeasts), which can cause food spoilage and foodborne illness.
In many countries such as France, The Netherlands, the Republic of South Africa, the USA and Thailand food is commonly irradiated. In the UK, STERIS AST has been granted a license from the U.K. Food Standards Agency to irradiate dried herbs and spices.
Gamma irradiation is a safe and effective process that can be used for controlling microbial contamination of dry food ingredients. As irradiation is chemical and residue free, it has little or no effect on properties such as appearance, flavor, texture or aroma. As an expert in sterilization and the accompanying legislative regulations, STERIS AST can advise on the appropriate requirements for home and export.
Animal Consumption
Irradiation is effective in controlling microbial contamination in animal feed, pet food, and treats. As an effective process, the irradiation of animal feed is approved by the regulatory agencies in most countries. STERIS AST can effectively treat:
- Pet treats such as chews
- Birdseed for pets and wild birds
- Compound feeds and foodstuffs – mixed grains, hay, straw, silage
- Animal origin feed – pigs ears
STERIS Consumer Products Services Advantages:
- High quality, cost-effective product processing
- Widespread network of sterilization facilities
- Multi-disciplinary technical staff and on-site quality assurance personnel
- Detailed certification of your decontamination process
- Dedicated radiation and ethylene oxide technology centers
STERIS AST operates under a quality system that is in compliance with 21 CFR Part 820 and applicable sections of 21 CFR Part 211. In addition, STERIS is registered to the ISO 13485 Quality Standards and adheres to the requirements of ISO 11137 (Radiation) and ISO 11135 (EO).