Re: In the news articles and on the radio

["Mark A. Smith" <web25@charweb.org>]

The term "low level irradiation" depends on the context.  In the 
radiation processing business, under which food irradiation falls, the 
absorbed dose to food products (usually approx. <1 to 3 kGy) is definitely 
low compared to sterilization doses for medical products (typically 25-50 
kGy) and doses delivered in material testing, such as for electronic 
circuit components in radiation hardened devices (anywhere from 50 kGy 
and up, 100 kGy is not unusual).  In fact, with some of the dosimetry 
methods available for measuring product doses, the range for food 
irradiation is at or near the lower limits of detection.

If you're comparing food irradiation doses to personnel dose limits, then 
"low level" is clearly incorrect.  One does have to define one's frame of 
reference.

Mark Smith
web25@charweb.org