If UV light is applied to tomatoes in a processing
line, it is likely that not all spots on the tomatoes will be directly
exposed to the UV light as tomatoes will be rolling on the conveyer
belt. Thus, effectiveness of UV-C light in reducing Salmonella
contamination on different locations on tomato surfaces needs to
be determined. In addition, efficacy of UV light in reducing Salmonella
contamination on food contact surfaces commonly
encountered in tomato handling facilities is also of interest.
Thus,
the objectives of this study were: (1) to determine the effectiveness
of UV-C light in reducing Salmonella populations on tomatoes; (2)
to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment to reduce Salmonella
contamination regardless of its location on the tomato surface; (3)
to determine whether photoreactivation by the visible light or the
dark repair mechanisms can result in the recovery of damaged
Salmonella cells post-UV treatment; and (4) to study the effectiveness
of UV light to decrease Salmonella contamination on food
contact surfaces that could be used in tomato handling facilities.