PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY ON IRRADIATED FOODS

Abstract

This article aims to present information regarding the public’s knowledge about the food irradiation technique, which foods can undergo this process, and how to identify them. The theoretical framework was based on data from the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), National Library of Medicine (PubMed), Brazilian Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (BDTD), CAPES Journal Portal, government and non-governmental websites, as well as scientific articles published between 2015 and 2025. The methodology applied was an opinion survey to assess the population’s knowledge, initially without guidance on the topic and later after being informed through an educational text. Respondents included students, health professionals, and consumers. According to the results, in the first phase, most participants had little or no knowledge about the irradiation technique and its benefits, and the prevailing perception was that the technique could harm the product and health. In the second phase, after receiving information, a change in opinion was evident, with most participants stating they would consume irradiated foods, considering the technique innovative and safe. The opinion survey data reveal that awareness directly contributed to better understanding of the topic.