SureBeam, the US-based provider of food safety systems, has supplied Wegmans Food Markets with irradiating equipment that enhances the safety and flavour of ground beef.
Similar to a microwave oven, SureBeam technology uses ordinary electricity as its energy source to irradiate and help eliminate harmful bacteria - such as E.coli, listeria, and salmonella - enhancing a food's quality without compromising its taste, texture, or nutritional value. Friendly to the environment, the technology also provides a post-harvest treatment that effectively rids fresh fruit and vegetables of harmful environmental pests, eliminating the need for toxic chemical fumigants.
"For several years, we've been teaching that the only way to be sure of killing harmful bacteria is to cook ground beef to 160 degrees and take its temperature," said Danny Wegman, president of Wegman Food Markets. "That is still our advice for customers who buy ordinary fresh ground beef. However, we've worked for years to bring a safer alternative to market, and we believe our new, irradiated fresh ground beef is the right answer."
SureBeam processed ground beef and fruit products are sold across the nation in thousands of supermarkets, as well as by home delivery, direct mail and through food service.
Headquartered in San Diego, California, SureBeam is a leading provider of electron beam food safety systems and services for the food industry.