Laserfiche WebLink
. , <br /> <br /> H I CA HAWAII ISLAND CONTRACTORS' ASSOCIATION <br /> 494 C KALANIKOA STREET HILO, HAWAII 96720 PHONE (80S) 935-1316 FAX (808) 934-7779 <br /> still won't help our economy. <br /> There is no doubt that food irradiation involves many complex issues. If <br /> properly applied, irradiation can be an effective method of reducing <br /> organisms which cause food spoilage and human illness. Some benefits of <br /> food irradiation include: <br /> Reduction of postharvest losses (less food waste); <br /> 1., Reduction of chemical residues in foods (could replace fumigants <br /> and other pesticides) <br /> 2. Reduction of risks of foodborne illness from bacteria <br /> (Salmonella, Campytobacter and Shigella ) <br /> 3. Reduction of the risk of trichinosis from pork; <br /> 4. More appealing "fresh" characteristics for foods because it is a <br /> relatively "cold" process and foods closely resemble those in <br /> their fresh state. <br /> We need. income from outside of the state to build and maintain our <br /> economy. Tourism is one important source. Giving Hawaii Island growers <br /> the opportunity to sell our unique tropical produce is another. The Hawaii <br /> Island Contractors' Association supports the measure to fund the <br /> development of the post harvest treatment facility for irradiation. <br /> Hawaii Island is in need of economic stimulus. Let us take a bold stand for <br /> our families, friends, our future. The Hawaii Island Contractors' <br /> Association requests passage of this measure. <br /> Thank you Mr. Chair, Committee, People of Hawaii. <br /> Hugh Willocks, <br /> President, The Hawaii Island Contractors' Association <br /> <br />