Tag: Disinfection

Unlike bacteria and viruses, prions are not living organisms, which explains why they are not destroyed by normal cooking temperatures. These infectious proteins possess an extraordinary resistance to heat and conventional sterilization methods, a critical fact for understanding food safety.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), adding a specific amount of 2% tincture of iodine can effectively disinfect one liter of clear, warm water. This method provides a reliable way to make water safe for drinking in emergency or survival situations.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), tincture of iodine can be used to kill most harmful microorganisms in water during emergencies. This chemical method provides a portable solution for treating water when boiling is not possible, and has been a standard in first-aid kits and survival scenarios for many years.

The FDA has evaluated the safety of UV-treated foods for over 30 years and found the process safe when properly implemented. So, is UV light safe on food? The answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple 'yes' or 'no' and depends heavily on the specific type of UV used and the application.

For decades, topical iodine has been a standard antiseptic for preventing infections in minor scrapes and cuts. A modern adaptation of this first aid staple, pre-filled iodine Q tips offer a convenient and mess-free way to apply this powerful disinfectant directly to minor wounds, making them a crucial part of any first aid kit.

Ozonated water is created in a fascinating process that has been used for over a century, with the first municipal water treatment system installed in 1906. This powerful cleaning agent is essentially regular water that has been infused with ozone gas ($O_3$), making it an extremely effective, chemical-free disinfectant.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ozone has been recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for use as an antimicrobial agent for direct food contact since 2001. Yes, you can eat food exposed to ozone, as it quickly reverts to oxygen, leaving no harmful residues.

With millions of people worldwide still at risk of iodine deficiency, this trace mineral is critical for human health. But what are three things iodine is used for beyond just dietary supplementation, and how do its versatile applications extend across medicine and manufacturing?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), washing fruits and vegetables with plain running water is the best and safest practice for home kitchens. The question of can you wash produce with chlorine stems from industrial practices, but this method is not recommended for consumers due to the potential health risks and the complexity of safe application.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, iodine is an effective chemical disinfectant for emergency drinking water, but it is not a primary method for treating parasites. People put iodine in water to kill harmful bacteria, viruses, and certain protozoa, making it safer for consumption in survival situations or when a safe water source is unavailable.