Recent Advances and Potential Applications of Atmospheric Pressure Cold Plasma Technology for Sustainable Food Processing

Abstract

In a circular economy, products, waste, and resources are kept in the system as long as possible. This review aims to highlight the importance of cold plasma technology as an alternative solution to some challenges in the food chain, such as the extensive energy demand and the hazardous chemicals used. Atmospheric cold plasma can provide a rich source of reactive gas species such as radicals, excited neutrals, ions, free electrons, and UV light that can be efficiently used for sterilization and decontamination, degrading toxins, and pesticides. Atmospheric cold plasma can also improve the utilization of materials in agriculture and food processing, as well as convert waste into resources. The use of atmospheric cold plasma technology is not without challenges. The wide range of reactive gas species leads to many questions about their safety, active life, and environmental impact. Additionally, the associated regulatory approval process requires significant data demonstrating its efficacy. Cold plasma generation requires a specific reliable system, process control monitoring, scalability, and worker safety protections.

Application of cold argon plasma on germination, root length, and decontamination of soybean cultivars

“…This strategy may inhibit undesirable effects and help to reach an ideal sterilization setup. On the other hand, under the regulations of the Agricultural Marketing Service (USDA-AMS), the quality of the final fruit must be approved to prevent future human health issues [ 139 ]. On the one hand, cold plasma functions immediately after turning on the system.…”

Exploring the effects of non-thermal plasma pre-treatment on coriander (Coriander sativum L.) seed germination efficiency

“…However, advancements in plasma science have recently revealed a new potential element that may impact plant development: non-thermal plasma (NTP). NTP technology offers a promising avenue for sustainable and eco-friendly advancements in agriculture, making it an important area of research and development [ [3] , [4] , [5] ]. The distinct characteristics of NTP, including the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), ultraviolet radiation, and electric fields, establish it as a promising resource for agricultural and horticultural applications [ [6] , [7] , [8] ].…”

Acid Adaptation Enhances Tolerance of Escherichia coli O157:H7 to High Voltage Atmospheric Cold Plasma in Raw Pineapple Juice

“…Due to these challenges, juice manufacturers developed a keen interest in non-thermal technologies to treat juices. Such technologies include high-pressure processing, pulsed electric fields, ultraviolet light, ultrasound, and cold plasma [15][16][17][18].…”