Aqueous and gaseous plasma applications for the treatment of mung bean seeds

Sprouts are particularly prone to microbial contamination due to their high nutrient content and the warm temperatures and humid conditions needed for their production. Therefore, disinfection is a crucial step in food processing as a means of preventing the transmission of bacterial, parasitic and viral pathogens. In this study, a dielectric coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) system was used for the application of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), plasma activated water (PAW) and their combination on mung bean seeds. Germination assessments were performed in a test tube set-up filled with glass beads and the produced irrigation water. Overall, it was found that the combined seed treatment with direct air CAP (350 W) and air PAW had no negative impact on mung bean seed germination and growth, nor the concentration of secondary metabolites within the sprouts. These treatments also reduced the total microbial population in sprouts by 2.5 log CFU/g. This research reports for first time that aside from the stimulatory effect of plasma discharge on seed surface disinfection, sustained plasma treatment through irrigation of treated seeds with PAW can significantly enhance seedling growth. The positive outcome and further applications of different forms, of plasma i.e., gaseous and aqueous, in the agro-food industry is further supported by this research.