Researchers from ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV LED) maker Sensor Electronic Technology Inc (SETi) of Columbia, SC, USA and the Food Components and Health Laboratory of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) say they have found a way to extend the shelf-life of fresh fruit and vegetables stored in home refrigerators.
The three-year program, which investigated the effects of light from certain types of UV LEDs, has led to more than double the shelf-life of fresh produce, while retaining the nutritional quality and appearance. The technology is currently being commercialized for the home appliance market.
“Findings of this exciting program are expected to have a major impact on the appliance business to extend the shelf-life and preserve nutritional value of the fresh produce,” says SETi’s president & CEO Dr Remis Gaska. “We look forward to the prospect of UV LEDs in residential refrigerators impacting on everyday life and reducing waste through spoilage,” he adds.
“We are exploring the possibility that the UV effect involves the induction of defense mechanisms in the fruit itself in addition to inhibition of mold growth, since evidence indicates parts of the UV spectrum retards decay,” notes Dr Steven Britz, a research plant physiologist at USDA’s Agricultural Research Service.