Work

Sequential antimicrobial treatments enhance cantaloupe and watermelon microbial quality in packinghouse operations

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: In recent years, outbreaks of foodborne illnesses associated with enteric pathogens in cantaloupes and watermelons have prompted the investigation of treatments that enhance produce safety without compromising its quality. The conditions used in this study simulated a packinghouse conveyor system with brief exposure of the melons to the sanitizers. This study evaluates the efficacy of sequential application of antimicrobial solutions on the microbial quality and shelf-life of cantaloupes and watermelons, simulating commercial packinghouse sprayer systems. Chlorine dioxide (ClO 2 ; 5 mg/L), peracetic acid (PAA; 80 mg/L), and free available chlorine (FAC; 150 mg/L), applied both individually or in combination, were tested via three 5-s immersions, mimicking sequential sprayer exposures, to reduce Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes , and Salmonella Typhimurium counts. The ClO 2 and PAA combination (CCP) achieved the highest reduction of foodborne pathogens, with up to 2.17 log CFU/g on cantaloupe rinds and 3.52 log CFU/g on watermelon rinds. Water treatments alone were largely ineffective, underscoring the need to incorporate antimicrobial solutions during the washing of cantaloupes and watermelons. Sensory assessments on whole melons showed no adverse impact on consumer willingness to purchase compared to controls. Refrigeration (4 °C) extended the shelf life fourfold compared to room temperature (22 °C), emphasizing the role of cold storage. These findings suggest that integrating inline sprayer-based antimicrobial solutions with refrigeration enhances microbial safety and shelf life, offering growers a practical strategy for ensuring the safety of fresh produce.

Source: Postharvest Biology and Technology

DOI: 10.1016/j.postharvbio.2025.113716

Authors: Hansel A. Mina, Adriana Vanegas-Torres, Amanda J. Deering

Institution: Purdue University West Lafayette

Language: English

Topic: Listeria monocytogenes in Food Safety

Subfield: Biotechnology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,280