New Cold Plasma Breakthrough Boosts Safer Food Systems

Cold plasma research shows strong promise for global food safety solutions

Cold Plasma – it seems like something out of science fiction.  How can it be related to agriculture? 

Cold plasma, often seen as a purple glow created by electricity, is recognized as the fourth state of matter. Today, researchers believe it can offer major solutions for global food safety, agriculture, and human health. The technology creates short-lived molecules that can eliminate dangerous pathogens and toxins without damaging food quality. 

Dr. Kevin Keener, an engineering professor at the University of Guelph, has spent almost three decades advancing high-voltage atmospheric cold plasma. His work began with simple experiments using coils, cardboard and a transformer to show how sealed food packages can be safely treated without chemicals.  

“There are over five million children in Africa impacted by mycotoxins in food,” said Keener, referring to the poisonous compounds produced by moulds that flourish in high-humidity environments. “Our gas chemistry destroys these mycotoxins.” 

The technology now supports wider applications. Clean Crop Technologies, co-founded by Keener, uses cold plasma on seeds, grains and nuts to improve safety and support stronger water uptake. Research shows this process can double germination rates, offering benefits for crop growth and global food supplies. Cold plasma can also modify oils, creating more desirable products that may reduce international dependence on imported oils. 

Another innovation is plasma-activated water, which acts as a powerful sanitizer. Graduate researcher Himashree Ponrajan worked on a project using this water to remove salmonella from chicken. After two years of testing variables like electrode gaps, transformers and container size, the team achieved 99 percent salmonella removal in under 10 minutes. 

Despite its promise, North America remains behind in prototype development. Countries like China have more machines built for testing and demonstration. Researchers believe broader investment and manufacturing support will help the technology progress. 

Keener remains confident that cold plasma can eventually become a widely used tool. He notes that the goal is not only commercialization but improving global health and agriculture through accessible and effective food-safety solutions. 

Photo Credit: UofG-Strawberries-with-plasma-keener-lab