초록
This review was intended to develop the sterilization method of spices by gamma irradiation and the results are summarized as follows. Microbial load of spices was different according to the kind of spices and the number was ranged from $10^{2}$-$10^{5}/g$ to $10^{7}$-$10^{8}/g$, gamma irradiation up to 4-10 kGy could decreased or sterilized to the microorganism of spices. In physicochemical properties of spices such as chemical components,essential oil and flavor, irradiated group with optimum dose was almost similar to the nonirradiated one, while fumigant treated group was remarkably deteriorated in the properties of spices compared with control, and free radicals produced by irradiation was disappeared during a few days storage. Irradiated spices should be an aptitude for good quality the storeability of processing food. Optimum dose irradiation below less than that proposed by FAO/IAEA/WHO Joint Committee and FDA was remarkably effect on the sterilization of spices and superior in wholesomeness and economic feasibiity compared with traditional methods. Irradiation might be an alternative to traditional sterilization methods of spices by fumigants such as ethylene oxide and ethylene dibromide because their treatments have been banned in U.S.A and other countries since 1982.