Using CO2 Lasers to Label Fresh Produce: Impact on Quality, Safety, and Cost

Jenn Hoskins
19th July, 2024

Using CO2 Lasers to Label Fresh Produce: Impact on Quality, Safety, and Cost

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study by Kansas State University evaluated CO2 laser-labeling technology (LLT) on 'Red Delicious' apple, green bell pepper, and cucumber
  • Laser-engraved produce experienced higher fresh weight loss compared to untreated produce
  • There was no observable difference in visual quality between laser-labeled and untreated produce
  • Text-labeled produce had higher E. coli contamination than untreated produce, while QR-coded produce had similar contamination levels to controls
Fresh produce labeling has traditionally relied on plastic price lookup (PLU) stickers adhered with edible glue. While effective, these stickers pose environmental concerns and can detach, disrupting traceability. A promising alternative, CO2 laser-labeling technology (LLT), has emerged, but its impact on postharvest quality, microbial safety, and economic feasibility needed evaluation. A recent study by Kansas State University aimed to address these gaps[1]. The study focused on three horticultural crops: 'Red Delicious' apple, green bell pepper, and cucumber. Using a Trotec Speedy 300 CO2 laser engraver, researchers engraved Quick Response (QR) codes and 6-digit alphanumerical codes onto the produce. Post-engraving, an edible wax was applied to the surfaces. The study assessed fresh weight loss, visual quality, and microbial contamination. Results showed that laser-engraved produce experienced higher fresh weight loss compared to controls. Despite this, there was no observable difference in visual quality between treated and untreated produce. To evaluate microbial safety, the produce was artificially inoculated with rifampicin-resistant Escherichia coli (E. coli) at a concentration of log10 6 CFU/mL. The findings revealed that text-coded produce had statistically higher E. coli populations than the non-treated controls, whereas QR-coded produce showed similar contamination levels to the controls. The application of wax did not affect microbial attachment on the laser-labeled produce. These findings align with previous research highlighting the importance of understanding microbial behavior on fresh produce surfaces. For instance, it is known that E. coli O157 can bind to lettuce leaves through various mechanisms[2]. Similarly, Salmonella's association with fresh produce is serovar-specific, involving factors like flagella and cellulose[2]. Research into jalapeño peppers also demonstrated that pathogen survival and growth are influenced by surface integrity and storage conditions, emphasizing the critical role of proper handling and storage to prevent contamination[3]. The Kansas State University study contributes to this body of knowledge by showing that while LLT impacts fresh weight loss, it does not compromise visual quality. However, the increased microbial load on text-labeled produce indicates a potential risk that needs addressing. This insight is crucial for developing safer labeling technologies that do not exacerbate contamination risks. In terms of economic feasibility, the study did not provide detailed cost analysis, but the potential for LLT's industrial application was noted. This aligns with broader efforts to improve food safety and traceability using innovative technologies. For example, analyzing foodborne outbreak data has been a method to estimate the proportion of human cases linked to specific foods, highlighting the role of cross-contamination and the importance of traceability[4]. In summary, the Kansas State University study underscores the viability of CO2 laser-labeling technology for fresh produce. While it offers environmental benefits and maintains visual quality, addressing microbial safety concerns is essential for its broader adoption. Integrating these findings with existing research on microbial behavior and food safety can help develop comprehensive strategies for safer and more sustainable produce labeling.

AgricultureEnvironmentSustainability

References

Main Study

1) CO2 Laser-labeling on Fresh Produce: Evaluating Postharvest Quality, Microbial Safety, and Economic Analysis.

Published 16th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfp.2024.100329

Related Studies

2) Fresh fruit and vegetables as vehicles for the transmission of human pathogens.

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1462-2920.2010.02297.x

3) Effect of storage temperature on survival and growth of foodborne pathogens on whole, damaged, and internally inoculated jalapeños (Capsicum annuum var. annuum).

https://doi.org/10.4315/0362-028X.JFP-11-304

4) Analysis of foodborne outbreak data reported internationally for source attribution.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2008.12.031


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