Prospective Applications of Cold Plasma for Processing Poultry Products: Benefits, Effects on Quality Attributes, and Limitations

Abstract

Eliminating the pathogens from the chicken egg and meat is of supreme value for food scientists. In this regard, researchers have explored the potential applications of cold plasma, as a promising technique, to increase the profitability of poultry farming and safety of the poultry products. In the present study, an overview of the conducted research on plasma treatment of poultry products is presented to highlight the potential benefits of this emerging technology for the food and poultry industries. The potential negative effects of plasma treatment on the quality attributes of the product are also discussed. Moreover, the limitations of this technology and considerations for its commercial applications are illustrated. Furthermore, the needs for future research in this area of science are pointed out. Several studies have confirmed the applicability of cold plasma for egg and chicken decontamination. Considering the number of the recently conducted research and on-going advances in plasma science, this technique may assist food producers in enhancing the poultry product safety in the near future.