990366 Save Lives and Irradiation Treatment of Meat

Springfield, VA - It still may make us a bit uncomfortable to think of irradiating our meat products prior to delivery for public consumption. But, reports are showing that this procedure not only helps control microbial pathogens but also, as a direct result, lowers the medical cost of previously related illnesses by as much as an estimated $171.8 billion over 20 years.

The National Technical Information Service is making available a number of reports that are designed to inform and support these claims. These are: “Economic Assessment of Food Safety Regulations: The New Approach to Meat and Poultry Inspection” is an economic analysis of new meat and poultry inspection rules. It specifically describes procedures adopted by processors and slaughterhouses to prevent contamination. Order number ERS-AER-755KON, $12.

“Irradiation of Red Meat. A Compilation of Technical Data for its Authorization and Control” provides rationale and justification for treating red meats with ionizing radiation for improving microbiological safety, parasite control, and extending non-frozen shelf life. Order number DE97- 612478KON, $25.50. This report is a companion to:

“Irradiation of Poultry Meat and its Products. A Compilation of Technical Data For its Authorization and Control” describes means by which poultry can be decontaminated with special emphasis on the wholesomeness of the irradiated products and the regulatory aspects of poultry irradiation. Order number DE93- 620805KON, $51.

“Food Irradiation Newsletter” provides background on the process control and acceptance, including initial public reaction, to food irradiation. Order number DE92-642271KON, $31.50.

These reports are available from NTIS, 1-800-553-NTIS (6847) or 703-605- 6000, for the price quoted plus $5 handling fee for total order, no additional charge for shipping; quote order numbers provided. Most major credit cards accepted. Order via e-mail: orders@ntis.fedworld.gov. Fax order to: 703-605- 6900.

Access information on more than 400,000 government information products on the NTIS Web site: http://www.ntis.gov.

The National Technical Information Service is the federal government's central source for the sale of scientific, technical, engineering, and related business information produced by or for the U.S. government and complementary material from international sources. Nearly 3 million products are available from NTIS in a variety of formats, including microfiche, paper, diskette, audiovisual, CD-ROM, and online.

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