THE EFFECT OF GAMMA-IRRADIATION ON THE QUALITY OF ENGLISH WALNUTS (JUGLANS-REGIA)

The effectiveness of gamma irradiation of walnuts at 5, 10, 15 and 20 kGy was compared to propylene oxide for controlling mold in walnuts. C oliforms were reduced to non-delectable levels by both treatments. Gam ma processed walnuts had significantly lower mold counts than nuts tre ated with Propylene oxide. Gamma processing at doses of 10 kGy or high er was more effective in reducing Standard Plate Count than treatment with propylene oxide. Gamma processed walnuts exhibited a decrease in iodine Value and 2-Thiobarbituric acid numbers; an increase was noted after exposure to propylene oxide. The peroxide value was significantl y higher in the gamma processed than the propylene oxide treated walnu ts.