Call to Action: Food and Phytosanitary irradiation 

Collaboration between iia’s Phytosanitary & Food Irradiation Platform (PFiP) and the International Food Ionizing Processing Symposium (IFIS) was announced earlier this year. This represents a positive and valuable development at a time when phytosanitary irradiation is gaining momentum, particularly across the Asia-Pacific region, where Australia and New Zealand are leaders.

During October and November 2026, PFiP will be present in Australia, engaging with a broad range of stakeholders to identify priorities, agree actions and define how these can support the application of phytosanitary and food irradiation. PFiP also aims to hold a webinar in November to share ideas and provide an update on plans and next steps.

Looking further ahead, the next International Meeting on Radiation Processing (IMRP) (April 2027) will include a food and phytosanitary irradiation component. PFiP is planning to convene a pre-conference workshop focused specifically on the development of phytosanitary irradiation. In late 2027 the International Food Ionizing Processing Symposium (IFIS) will hold its next event in Brazil providing another opportunity to bring food and phytosanitary stakeholders together so that momentum can be maintained.

Meetings and events can raise awareness, build connections and help unlock potential. However, real progress will be limited unless these activities are supported by those who recognise the benefits and potential of the technology.

This is where we need your involvement.

The International Irradiation Association, through PFiP, is calling on members to express their interest, and actively contribute their time and expertise to initiatives that will help unlock the benefits of phytosanitary and food irradiation.

If you are interested in supporting PFiP activities and helping shape the next steps, please contact Paul Wynne at pwynne@iiaglobal.com.