Innovative Pathogen Reduction in Exported Sea Bass Through Atmospheric Cold Plasma Technology

The safety of sea bass is critical for the global food trade. This study evaluated the effectiveness of atmospheric cold plasma in reducing food safety risks posed by <i>Salmonella</i> Enteritidis and <i>Listeria monocytogenes</i>, which can contaminate sea bass post harvest. Cold plasma was applied to inoculated sea bass for 2 to 18 min, achieving a maximum reduction of 1.43 log CFU/g for <i>S.</i> Enteritidis and 0.80 log CFU/g for <i>L. monocytogenes</i> at 18 min. Longer treatments resulted in greater reductions; however, odor and taste quality declined to a below average quality in samples treated for 12 min or longer. Plasma treatment did not significantly alter the color, texture, or water activity (aw) of the fish. Higher levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARSs) were observed with increased exposure times. Cold plasma was also tested in vitro on <i>S.</i> Enteritidis and <i>L. monocytogenes</i> on agar surfaces. A 4 min treatment eliminated the initial loads of <i>S.</i> Enteritidis (2.71 log CFU) and <i>L. monocytogenes</i> (2.98 log CFU). The findings highlight the potential of cold plasma in enhancing the safety of naturally contaminated fish. Cold plasma represents a promising technology for improving food safety in the global fish trade and continues to be a significant area of research in food science.