RF dielectric heating for reduction of human pathogens on sprouting seed

摘要

The potential for controlling human bacterial pathogens on alfalfa seed, used in the production of sprouts, by dielectric heating was studied by experimental exposure of alfalfa seed that was artificially contaminated with three pathogens. Significant reductions in populations of all three pathogens were achieved without reductions in seed germination, but desired levels of pathogen reduction were not achieved without significant damage to seed germination.