Owing to its chemical composition and production chain, rice is susceptible to contamination by fungi. Among other techniques, the application of gamma radiation has been suggested as a method to ensure food safety. However, such radiation can alter the chemical composition of the food. Thus, the objective of the present work is to evaluate the centesimal composition, caloric value, pH, total titratable acidity, and coloration of polished white rice subjected to different doses of Co60 gamma radiation (0 kGy, 6.5 kGy, and 7.5 kGy). The results demonstrated that while gamma radiation did not cause significant alterations in the centesimal composition, caloric value, and titratable acidity of the rice, increasing doses substantially decreased the pH and intensified the coloration. Under controlled radiation conditions, a 6.5-kGy dose can render rice safe for consumption without significantly compromising its physical and physicochemical properties.
Food irradiation; food properties; food safety
