Nonirradiated

Nonirradiated means that a food ingredient has not been exposed to ionizing radiation. Radiation is sometimes used to kill bacteria and other pathogens, or to slow ripening and sprouting in produce. The process is regulated by the FDA.

Manufacturers may choose to use nonirradiated ingredients to assure consumers that the food has not undergone this preservation process. This term is often seen on products like granola, cereals, and snack bars where consumers may have concerns about food processing methods.

Irradiation is an FDA-approved process for certain foods and food ingredients. The FDA requires that irradiated foods be clearly labeled with the Radura symbol and a statement like 'Treated with radiation' or 'Treated by irradiation.' The use of nonirradiated ingredients is a consumer choice, not a regulatory requirement for most products. Regulatory bodies like the WHO and FDA have reviewed the safety of food irradiation and found it to be safe.