(under subclass 237) Processes wherein ions which are the result of electromagnetic or particulate radiation contact a food material, e.g., gamma, X-rays, beta rays, etc..
(1) Note. Beta radiation as used herein includes cathode rays or electron beams, the former being the common designation when the rays originate from a natural or artificial source, while the latter designation is employed to indicate rays produced in an electrical apparatus, e.g., vacuum tube type, etc.. Beta and electron beams are particulate in nature.
(2) Note. Gamma radiation as used herein includes X-rays. Gamma rays are those that originate from a natural or artificial radioactive source, whereas X-rays as commonly
used are rays that are produced by electron bombardment of suitable sources. Gamma and X-rays are both electromagentic in character. Included with the term gamma ray are emissions from such sources as cobalt 60 and cesium 134.
