The Maharashtra government will establish onion storage banks across the state, using nuclear technology for irradiation to extend the freshness and shelf life of the onions. The government has initiated this step to ensure that onion farmers don’t suffer losses due to price fluctuation and have well-equipped storage.
Nuclear technology for onion irradiation involves using controlled doses of ionising radiation to make onions safer to eat by killing harmful microorganisms and extending their shelf life. The radiation has enough energy to alter the structure of atoms. In the case of onion irradiation, the energy us used to affect certain components in the onions. Irradiation can slow down the natural process of ripening and decay. The onions will exposed to controlled doses of ionising radiation. This is usually done in a special facility where the process is carefully monitored.
Source: thehindubusinessline.com