CFR - Code of Federal Regulations Title 21

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For the most up-to-date version of CFR Title 21, go to the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR).

[Code of Federal Regulations]

[Title 21, Volume 3]

[CITE: 21CFR179.39]

TITLE 21--FOOD AND DRUGS

CHAPTER I--FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

SUBCHAPTER B - FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION (CONTINUED)

PART 179 -- IRRADIATION IN THE PRODUCTION, PROCESSING AND HANDLING OF FOOD

Subpart B - Radiation and Radiation Sources

Sec. 179.39 Ultraviolet radiation for the processing and treatment of food.

Ultraviolet radiation for the processing and treatment of food may be safely used under the following conditions:

(a) The radiation sources consist of low pressure mercury lamps emitting 90 percent of the emission at a wavelength of 253.7 nanometers (2,537 Angstroms).

(b) The ultraviolet radiation is used or intended for use as follows:

Irradiated food	Limitations	Use
Food and food products	Without ozone production: high fat-content food irradiated in vacuum or in an inert atmosphere; intensity of radiation, 1 W (of 2,537 A. radiation) per 5 to 10 ft. 2	Surface microorganism control.
Potable water	Without ozone production; coefficient of absorption, 0.19 per cm or less; flow rate, 100 gal/h per watt of 2,537 A. radiation; water depth, 1 cm or less; lamp-operating temperature, 36 to 46 deg.C.	Sterilization of water used in food production.
Juice products	Turbulent flow through tubes with a minimum Reynolds number of 2,200.	Reduction of human pathogens and other microorganisms.

[42 FR 14635, Mar. 15, 1977, as amended at 65 FR 71057, Nov. 29, 2000]