1.1 This guide covers procedures for irradiation of dried spices, herbs, and vegetable seasonings for microbiological control. Generally, these items have moisture content of 4.5 to 12 % and are available in whole, ground, chopped, or other finely divided forms, or as blends. The blends may contain sodium chloride and minor amounts of dry food materials ordinarily used in such blends.

1.2 This guide covers gamma, electron beam, and X-radiation treatment. This guide also covers low energy electron beam treatment where only part of the product is irradiated (that is, surface treatment).

1.3 This guide covers absorbed doses ranging from 3 to 30 kilogray (kGy).

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.5 This document is one of a set of standards that provides recommendations for properly implementing and utilizing radiation processing. It is intended to be read in conjunction with Practice ISO/ASTM 52628.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.