Cold plasma treatment induces phenolic accumulation and enhances antioxidant activity in fresh-cut pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) fruit

Non-thermal cold plasma as a novel method for maintaining safety and inducing phenolic accumulation in fresh-cut pitaya (Hylocereus undatus) fruit and the possible mechanisms were investigated. Results showed that cold plasma treatment (60 kV for 5 min) significantly inhibited the growth of total aerobic bacterial counts, increased the cutting-induced phenolic accumulation and enhanced antioxidant activity in fresh-cut pitaya fruit. Moreover, cold plasma treatment promoted the consumption of main sugars, enhanced the level of energy status, accelerated the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) at earlier storage, increased gene expression and activity of crucial enzymes in phenylpropanoid pathway. The present research provides convincing evidence regarding the beneficial effects of cold plasma treatment for inducing phenolic accumulation and enhancing antioxidant activity of fresh-cut pitaya fruit and offers potential opportunity for the processing and preservation of fresh-cut fruits and vegetables.