Which radiation sources can be used to irradiate seafood?

To irradiate seafood for the purpose of pasteurization or sterilization, food irradiators utilize specific sources of ionizing radiation. These sources include:

• Radioisotopes: Specifically cobalt-60 (${}^{60}$Co) or cesium-137 (${}^{137}$Cs), which emit gamma rays.12
• Electron beam generators: These devices use high-voltage particle accelerators to produce a beam of electrons.12

The use of these technologies allows for the extension of shelf life by inhibiting spoilage without inducing radioactivity in the food product itself. When utilizing these methods, it is an ethical imperative to maintain rigorous safety standards, such as encapsulating radioisotopes in double layers of stainless steel and employing comprehensive safeguards to protect both plant personnel and the surrounding community from accidental exposure.12