Business and innovation

Pulsed photo stimulated luminescence system

Food irradiation is the use of high energy ionising radiation to extend shelf life by reducing the bacterial loads associated with natural foods. We have developed methods and equipment for screening foodstuffs for irradiation.

Technology Overview

The pulsed photo stimulated luminescence system was designed and developed at the Scottish Universities Research and Reactor Centre, and provides an opportunity for effective detection of irradiated foods using a rapid instrumental method. Originally developed for rapid screening of irradiated herbs, spices and seasonings, it has been validated for a wider range of foodstuffs and is finding other scientific applications in assessment of fire damaged structures, and environmental dosimetry.

During the measurements the sample is stimulated with a pulsed Infra-Red (IR) source, and UV-VIS Anti-Stokes Luminescence is measured with exceptional sensitivity using a patented digital lock-in photon counting method. Irradiated samples produce a specific signal which is detected and quantified.

For screening, the signal level is compared with two thresholds defined from reference data. The majority of irradiated samples produce a strong signal above the high threshold level. Signals below the lower threshold indicate that the samples have not been irradiated. Intermediate signal levels between the two thresholds suggest that further tests or investigations should be made.

The two threshold concept provides an extremely effective screening approach, achieving detection rates above 95% in first-pass laboratory tests. Samples can be retained for reference purposes, or can be sent to a calibrated laboratory for confirmation. PSL screening can also be backed by the internationally validated thermoluminescence test.

Key Benefits

• The system can be used in a stand-alone mode, with simple push button controls, or in conjunction with a laboratory computer for data storage and record keeping.
• It is readily transported and easy to use.
• Simple screening measurements are possible (PSL Screening), or the system can be used in conjunction with a calibrated radiation source (calPSL).
• The process is extremely quick, usually taking 15-60 seconds.
  Applications

The system will be of interest to any organisation concerned with the detection of whether food or food ingredients have been treated with ionising radiation.

Find out more

For more information on this technology, please contact the IP & Commercialisation team.