Detection of irradiation in scampi tails--effects of sample preparation, irradiation dose and storage on ESR response in the cuticle

Summary This paper describes the potential of using ESR spectroscopy for the identification of irradiated scampi (Norway lobster) using the signal induced in the cuticle at 349.5 mT. Freeze‐drying the cuticle gave a larger signal than air‐drying, and peak height was found to be a more reliable method of quantification than double integration of the peak. There was a linear response with increasing irradiation dose. Samples were stored intact at –20°C and +5°C and as dry shell at room temperature for up to 84 d and it was observed that signal intensity was reduced with increased storage time and higher temperature, especially at the higher doses. Thus ESR spectroscopy can be used to detect irradiation in scampi cuticle and has potential for the estimation of irradiation dose.