Changes in bananas and guavas after irradiation by dental X-ray equipment

Food irradiation is a process in which foods are subjected to controlled doses of ionizing radiation. The main advantage is the destruction of microorganisms, maintaining their characteristics longer. The objective of this study was to verify if the low energy range of X - rays emitted by periapical dental equipment is capable of generating some alteration in the maturation and / or decay time of fruits such as bananas and guavas. The methodology included the purchase of bananas and green guavas, transported to the Laboratory of Dental Radiology of the University of Grande Rio, to expose the existing equipment in the facility. A batch of bananas was separated to be irradiated and one not to be irradiated (control group). The same happened with two guavas. Each type of fruit was irradiated on 06/18/2016 at 2:35 pm, selecting 70 kVp and 15 mAs on the control panel. Fruit characteristics, such as color and texture, were observed and recorded for 17 days. It was observed on the 14^th day that the bananas of the control group presented more yellowish color and brown color, indicating a high degree of ripening and at the end of the stipulated time they showed rot. The irradiated bananas presented brown coloration, but without signs of rotting. Guavas, irradiated and control, were rotted at the end of the 17 days, but control at a higher grade. It is concluded that even the low energetic band of the beam emitted by the periapical dental equipment is able to alter the time of maturation and decay of the fruits. Non-utility for commercial purposes is emphasized