THE EFFECT OF FUMIGANTS ON FOOD QUALITY

Fumigants are used to prevent pest infestations in food and other stored commodities. The quality of the commodity may be affected by fumigant treatment in several ways. Residues of unchanged fumigant may remain in the commodity. Reaction of the individual chemical components of the commodity with the fumigant may alter its chemical or physical properties, thus resulting in changes in flavor, taste, odor, nutritional value or processing qualities. Methyl bromide, ethylene dibromide, ethylene dichloride, carbon tetrachloride, phosphine and ethylene oxide are the major fumigants used for treatment of grains, vegetables and fruits. Their effects on food quality and the significance of residues in treated commodities are reviewed.