Standardization activities of ASTM and ISO in the field of food irradiation

Standardization is an important requirement in the domain of food irradiation. Some DIN standards are available relating to analytical methods for detection of irradiated food, and within the EU, standard CEN methods have been elaborated for identification of irradiated food. Another very important aspect is standardization for licensed irradiation of foodstuffs, standards to achieve uniform practice in applications and operation of facilities, and which also serve as a basis for official surveillance of food irradiation. ASTM is the organization that has been active in this respect for many years now, especially in the elaboration of standards relating to practice for dosimetry and the use of dosimetry systems, and has published a number of guides and codes of good practice. Some of the dosimetry standards currently are reviewed for adoption as international ISO standards. (orig./CB)