Abstract: The combined use of ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) was investigated for the reduction of zearalenone (ZEN) in corn kernels under different conditions, and the changes in the quality of corn after the treatment were detected in this study. Results showed that processing time and initial moisture content of corn had a significant effect on ZEN degradation. The degradation rate showed an upward trend with increasing processing time. Under suitable conditions of processing time (5–30 min) and moisture content (26.87%–35.23%), the degradation rate reached 20.30%–33.80%. The moisture content of corn decreased after the treatment, but there were no significant changes in protein content, fat acid value or color (P > 0.05). Basically, the germination rate did not change, but the germination potential increased significantly after 30 min of treatment (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in the apparent morphology of corn. In conclusion, UV-ACP treatment is effective in reducing ZEN in corn without adverse effects on corn quality, indicating great application potential.

Key words: mycotoxin; control measures; ultraviolet; plasma; zearalenone; corn; quality