Effect of electron beam irradiation on pest control, mold prevention, and quality of lotus seeds

To investigate the effects of electron beam irradiation on microorganisms, insect pests, and nutritional components in lotus seeds (also known as lotus kernels), samples were irradiated at doses of 0 kGy, 0.4 kGy, 1 kGy, 2 kGy, 4 kGy, and 6 kGy. The results demonstrated that irradiation at 0.4 kGy effectively inhibited insect egg hatching in lotus seeds, resulting in 100% mortality of adult rice weevils within 72 h post-treatment. Total bacterial and mold counts significantly decreased with increasing absorbed doses. Immediately after irradiation at 0.4 kGy, both counts dropped to 20 CFU/g. Following 180-day of storage after a 2 kGy irradiation, these values remained below 100 CFU/g. Absorbed doses ranging from 0 kGy to 6 kGy had no significant impact on moisture, ash, crude protein, crude fiber, or amylose content in lotus seeds. However, crude fat content decreased significantly after irradiation, while amylopectin content showed an initial increase followed by a decline. This study provides scientific support for the application of electron beam irradiation technology in controlling insect infestation and mold growth during lotus seed storage.