Nuclear science may still be considered by many as “mysterious”, but in reality, it works in things we love, like food.
Food and condiments like honey and vinegar, should be authentic for people to get their money’s worth and to guard their health. For those who are up for nobler things like preference for organic food and adherence to halal standards, pure and authentic food is a must.
There are typical ways of checking like real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) that can determine adulterations of foods by biological contaminants or those with DNA.
But what if the food is already processed? There is already no DNA in it, so RT-PCR will no longer work.
Raymond J. Sucgang, a nuclear analytical techniques expert at the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (DOST-PNRI), has the answer. “The most effective way to check the food products, whether unprocessed or processed, is through the isotope technique.”
The technique uses tools to identify the isotope fingerprint of the product. Just like humans, food and beverages have fingerprints--a unique chemical signature that allows the product to be identified.
Aside from being able to determine if food is pure or not, isotope techniques can also be used in tracing the geographical origin of food and verifying if it is organic or adheres to halal standards, Sucgang explained.
“Isotope technique can even trace the travel history of a person,” he revealed. “It’s done by checking the isotopes found in the hair.”
These are just a few snippets of the animated discussion on isotope techniques and other nuclear technologies held in the “What’s Your Ulam, Bestie?” forum at the Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Cagayan de Oro on November 28, 2024.
The lively discussion was driven by the moving message on the relevance and importance of nuclear science by the country’s first-ever Nuclear Ambassador, Mohammad Nur Casib, a student from Philippine Science High School- Central Mindanao Campus. Casib got a gold and the highest points at the first International Nuclear Science Olympiad, earning him the title.
Organized by the DOST-PNRI, the forum also featured radiation processing and how it is used to lengthen shelf life and help in achieving food safety and security, as discussed by Haydee M. Solomon. Also featured was the so-called “Future Food” presented by Kristelle Mae C. Tardecilla. The goodies, made from superworms, became an instant hit among forum and exhibit attendees.
Messages were also delivered by Deputy Director Dr. Vallerie Anne I. Samson and Chief of Nuclear Services Division Dr. Preciosa Corazon B. Pabroa. (By Framelia V. Anonas, DOST-PNRI)
