Synergistic interaction of ultraviolet light and zinc oxide photosensitizer for enhanced microbial inactivation in simulated wash-water

Chlorine-based sanitizers that are conventionally used for washing fresh-produce suffer significant limitations including occupational hazard for workers from over-exposure to chlorine and safety hazards to the population due to formation of chlorinated organic matter. This study highlights that UV-A irradiated ZnO is a promising alternative to sanitize wash-water and fresh-produce and reduce the risk of bacterial as well as viral cross-contamination. Future studies are needed to optimize and scale-up this process for industrial use.