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
flled with glass beads and the produced irrigation water. Overall, it was found that the combined
seed treatment with direct air CAP (350W) 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 frst time that aside from the stimulatory efect of plasma discharge on seed
surface disinfection, sustained plasma treatment through irrigation of treated seeds with PAW can
signifcantly enhance seedling growth. The positive outcome and further applications of diferent
forms, of plasma i.e., gaseous and aqueous, in the agro-food industry is further supported by this
research.peer-reviewe
