This $623,618 federal Project Grant, awarded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) under the Integrated Programs (CFDA 10.303), supports a collaborative project led by Kansas State University (KSU) to develop cold plasma treatment as an alternative to methyl bromide fumigation for disinfesting and decontaminating pulses.
The key objectives are to evaluate the efficacy of cold plasma treatment in controlling insect pests and pathogenic microbes like Salmonella, Listeria, and STECS in chickpeas and cowpeas, while maintaining seed germination properties. The project will also employ hyperspectral imaging to detect pulse infestations. KSU is partnering with New Mexico State University on this effort, which aims to promote cold plasma as a sustainable, environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional chemical fumigation practices in the pulse industry. Outreach activities, including training and workshops, will educate stakeholders on the new technology.
Generated 3/18/25, 3:37 AM