In this study, a two-factor-six-level factorial design was adopted for optimizing brine (saturated salt solution) and water flow rates in electrolyzed water generator in order to produce electrolyzed water (EW) having best performance for vegetable washing. The pH, electro-conductivity, chlorine contents of produced EW were determined. The optimum EW for broccoli sprouts washing was produced at flow rates of brine and water of 100 mL/min and 300 mL/min respectively. The optimum washing time was 20 s based on the quality of washed broccoli sprouts. The microbial counts were decreased by 1.4 log for aerobic bacteria and 1.0 log for yeasts and mold. The functional quality and sensory characteristics of broccoli sprouts were unaffected by the EW washing. The results demonstrated the applicability of EW for the improvement of hygiene of broccoli sprouts without affecting quality.

Different pathogenic microorganisms have been reported to cause sprouts-associated outbreaks. This work aimed to evaluate the effect of corona discharge plasma jet (CDPJ) on disinfection of the natural bio-contaminants of broccoli seed and also studied the plasma effect on sprout seed germination rate and physico-chemical properties of sprouts. Aerobic bacteria, molds and yeasts, B. cereus, E. coli, Salmonella spp. were detected on the broccoli seed surface. After 0-3 min treatment using CDPJ, the detected microorganisms were reduced in the range of 1.2-2.3 log units. Inactivation patterns were better explained using pseudo-first-order kinetics. The plasma treatment of seeds up to 2 min exhibited positive effects on the germination rate and the seedling growth. The physico-chemical and sensory characteristics of sprouts were unaffected due to the CDPJ treatment of their respective seeds. The CDPJ can potentially be used for microbial decontamination of broccoli seeds.