What is the primary benefit of using halogens in mold remediation?

The primary benefit of using halogens in mold remediation lies in their effectiveness at killing microorganisms, including mold, by damaging their cell membranes. Halogens such as chlorine and iodine operate as strong oxidizing agents, which can penetrate the cell walls of bacteria and fungi. This action leads to the disruption of vital cellular functions, resulting in the death of the organism. This property makes halogens particularly suitable for sanitization and disinfection in environments contaminated by mold.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of halogens in this context. While some halogens can be applied safely on food surfaces with specific formulations, this is not their main advantage in mold remediation. Their role as a long-lasting deterrent against pests is more associated with other chemical compounds that have residual effects, rather than with the immediate disinfection properties of halogens. Lastly, the scent of halogens can often be quite harsh and unpleasant rather than pleasant, which does not contribute to their effectiveness in mold remediation.