The effect of electron beam irradiation on the microbial stability and quality characteristics of vacuum‐packaged ready‐to‐eat potato

We studied the microbial stability and quality of vacuum-packaged ready-to-eat (RTE) potatoes irradiated by different doses of electron beam during storage. Results showed that irradiation effectively reduced the total bacterial count of samples, with a maximum reduction of 7.08 log units by irradiation at 5 kGy. Irradiation at dose ≥7 kGy completely inactivated the microorganisms. Potato color and texture were affected when the irradiation dose was ≥3 and ≥5 kGy, respectively, which may be due to the reduction of a* value and chewiness of samples. An electronic nose could effectively distinguish the odor of the irradiated samples from the non-irradiated ones. Irradiation significantly reduced potato Vc content but it had no effect on the moisture and total protein content. Potato DPPH activities were increased by irradiation at dose ≤5 kGy but decreased when the dose was ≥7 kGy. The FRAP values were reduced in all irradiated samples. Novelty impact statement This work investigated the effect of electron beam irradiation on microbial stability and quality characteristics, including sensory quality, texture, odor, nutritional properties, and antioxidant capacity of vacuum-packaged RTE potatoes. Based on the results, an optimum dose for RTE potatoes decontamination was also suggested. Results would provide the basic data for the wider application of electron beams in RTE vegetable preservation.