Key Takeaways
- The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) advocates for nuclear technology to enhance food security in Indonesia.
- Nuclear technology helps extend food shelf life, preserve nutritional value, and prevent pests, contributing to improved food quality.
- Challenges exist in public perception, as the term “radiation” remains stigmatized despite its proven safety in multiple applications.
Nuclear Technology’s Role in Food Security
The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) in Indonesia is promoting the adoption of nuclear technology as a crucial aspect of food security. Syaiful Bakhri, head of BRIN’s Nuclear Energy Research Organization, emphasizes that this technology is essential not just for food preservation but also for ensuring quality, enhancing nutritional content, and providing protection against microorganisms and pests. Bakhri explains that the utilization of nuclear technology has transitioned from a supplementary role to becoming a fundamental backbone for both the quantity and quality of food in the country.
According to Bakhri, Indonesia is equipped with the necessary competencies and facilities to engage in research and development of nuclear technology, particularly at the G.A. Siwabessy Science and Technology Area in Jakarta, which houses seven research centers staffed by 506 researchers. These centers delve into various domains, including radiation process technology and nuclear safety.
Irawan Sugoro, head of the Radiation Process Technology Research Center, discusses the advantages of irradiation technology, which helps preserve food’s quality without altering its taste or nutritional value. This technology, although successfully employed in sectors like mining and healthcare for non-destructive testing and sterilization, faces hurdles regarding public perception. Sugoro points out that the stigma associated with “radiation” presents a significant challenge, despite its widespread and safe application in developed countries.
Murni Indarwatmi, a researcher at BRIN, highlights the benefits of irradiation technology for boosting food exports to countries with strict regulation, such as Australia. She notes that irradiation enables effective pest control without the need for costly manual interventions, especially for export fruits like mangoes and mangosteens. Furthermore, the technology’s ability to sterilize various food items—such as herbal products, processed meats, and even components like chili powder in instant noodles—while maintaining efficiency and hygiene is highlighted.
In conclusion, while the potential of nuclear technology to transform food security in Indonesia is apparent, addressing public concerns and misconceptions is vital for its broader acceptance and implementation.
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