Irradiation is a food treatment that exposes product to ionising radiation to reduce microbial load and pests, and is subject to strict authorisation and mandatory labelling requirements in the EU.
In trade practice
Under Directives 1999/2/EC and 1999/3/EC, the EU authorises irradiation only for dried aromatic herbs, spices and vegetable seasonings; it is not a permitted treatment for frozen fruit or most other food categories traded between Ukraine and the EU. Treated products must carry the words ‘irradiated’ or ‘treated with ionising radiation’ on the label, and the Radura symbol is used internationally though its display is not separately mandated by EU law. Buyers sourcing spices should request a declaration from the supplier confirming whether irradiation has been applied. Failure to declare treatment is a food fraud risk and triggers RASFF notifications.
In a specification
A spice or herb specification will state whether irradiation is permitted or prohibited, and require a supplier declaration of treatment status with each consignment.