Reduction of Salmonella on alfalfa seeds using peroxyacetic acid and a commercial seed washer is as effective as treatment with 20 000 ppm of Ca(OCl)2

Aims: The efficacy of a commercial seed washer and 1 and 3% peroxyacetic acid or 20 000 ppm calcium hypochlorite for reducing Salmonella on alfalfa seeds was investigated. Methods and Results: Alfalfa seeds were inoculated with Salmonella Stanley to achieve c. 5 log CFU g-1. Seeds were then treated with 1 or 3% peroxyacetic acid or 20 000 ppm calcium hypochlorite for 15 min in a commercial seed washer that uses air to enhance contact of the sanitizer with the seed. Experiments were also conducted using industry and laboratory methods. An c. 1-log reduction in number of Salm. Stanley was demonstrated regardless of the chemical treatment or method of treatment. Although this 1-log reduction was significant (P < 0 center dot 05), differences among the treatments were not significant. Treating the seed with 1 and 3% peroxyacetic acid resulted in similar Salm. Stanley reductions of 1 center dot 77 and 1 center dot 34 log, respectively, not being statistically significant (P > 0 center dot 05). Conclusions: These results suggest that under conditions tested, 1 or 3% peroxyacetic acid solutions are equally effective as 20 000 ppm of Ca(OCl)(2) in the reduction of Salm. Stanley on alfalfa seed when used in conjunction with a commercial seed washer. Significance and Impact of the Study: A 1% peroxyacetic acid solution could potentially be used in place of 20 000 ppm of Ca(OCl)(2) for treatment of seeds used for sprouting(.) The commercial seed washer did not enhance removal of Salm. Stanley from alfalfa seeds, but did facilitate removal of excess soil from seeds.