Could x-ray or other high energy device alter rice grains?

In summary: X-ray and other high energy devices are not powerful enough to ionize atoms and molecules, so they would not damage the grains.
  • #1
kenny1999
235
4
I almost always buy food from local market but recently I want to buy some rice (and probably other foods later) overseas which will be imported through our customs, so most likely the food will be scanned through x-ray or other high energy devices that I don't know, could rice grains or other food be altered adversely after passing through those scanning devices?
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
The X-Rays will mostly just pass right through. The small portion that is absorbed will knock some electrons out of the orbitals and perhaps split some molecules apart, but we're talking a very, very small portion. Not enough to adversely affect any food.
 
  • Like
Likes BillTre
  • #3
Drakkith said:
The X-Rays will mostly just pass right through. The small portion that is absorbed will knock some electrons out of the orbitals and perhaps split some molecules apart, but we're talking a very, very small portion. Not enough to adversely affect any food.

How about other possible scanning devices in addition to x-ray? Thanks
 
  • #4
kenny1999 said:
How about other possible scanning devices in addition to x-ray? Thanks
The only other scanning devices I'm aware of use lower energy EM radiation, such as infrared and microwaves, which are not of a high enough energy to ionize atoms and molecules. Thus, they don't damage the food at all.

In any case, any scanning technology used in customs is going to be virtually harmless to food when used properly. Damaging food or other items would be a serious consequence that would not go unnoticed by companies selling these products.
 
  • Like
Likes kenny1999, jim mcnamara and BillTre
  • #5
After this process, it's still food.

Even safer than before, actually :doh:

You have nothing to fear from them being simply scanned.
 
  • Like
Likes kenny1999 and BillTre
  • #6
A common misconception is that irradiation will make the food "radioactive". Essentially this only occurs when the radiation is neutrons: either primary neutrons as from a nuclear reactor; or secondary from a daughter decay initiated by a high energy X-ray. Neither process is possible from the radiation used to sanitize food against bacteria and insect infestation.
 
  • Like
Likes russ_watters, kenny1999 and BillTre
  • #7
Could x-ray or other high energy device alter rice grains?

Not as much as cooking them.
 
  • Like
  • Love
  • Haha
Likes russ_watters, kenny1999, Rive and 2 others

1. Can x-ray or other high energy devices alter the nutritional value of rice grains?

Yes, x-ray or other high energy devices can alter the nutritional value of rice grains. These devices emit high levels of energy that can break down the chemical structure of the rice grains, potentially reducing their nutrient content.

2. Is it safe to consume rice grains that have been exposed to x-ray or other high energy devices?

It is generally considered safe to consume rice grains that have been exposed to x-ray or other high energy devices. However, the altered nutritional value of the grains may affect their overall quality and may not be as beneficial for human consumption.

3. Can x-ray or other high energy devices change the physical appearance of rice grains?

Yes, x-ray or other high energy devices can change the physical appearance of rice grains. These devices can cause physical damage to the grains, resulting in changes in color, texture, and shape.

4. How does exposure to x-ray or other high energy devices affect the shelf life of rice grains?

Exposure to x-ray or other high energy devices can significantly reduce the shelf life of rice grains. The high levels of energy can cause the grains to deteriorate more quickly, leading to a shorter shelf life.

5. Are there any benefits to exposing rice grains to x-ray or other high energy devices?

There are some potential benefits to exposing rice grains to x-ray or other high energy devices. These devices can be used to detect and remove foreign objects or contaminants from the grains, ensuring a safer and higher quality product for consumers.

Similar threads

  • High Energy, Nuclear, Particle Physics
Replies
7
Views
396
Replies
7
Views
1K
  • Sci-Fi Writing and World Building
Replies
6
Views
660
  • General Engineering
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
62
Views
3K
  • General Engineering
Replies
27
Views
3K
  • STEM Academic Advising
Replies
8
Views
958
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
986
Back
Top