Abstract
Aim: In the present study, the objective was to investigate the impact of written words on inhibiting the growth of molds in the cultivation medium and on strawberry fruit. Methods: Two pairs of opposite written words with positive or negative connotations (such as love-hate and peace-war) were selected to study their effects on the inhibition growth of two of the most common fruit molds (Aspergillus niger and Botrytis cinerea) at various incubation periods (ranging from 1 to 5 days) at 25°C. Results: The findings indicated that there were no statistically significant differences (P≥0.05) in the growth of both molds on the medium when exposed to words with opposing meanings. However, when strawberries were inoculated with the mold spores and subjected to written words with positive connotations, such as "love" and "peace," a significant reduction in mold growth was observed (P<0.05) compared to the control group. Furthermore, the presence of the word "love" resulted in the longest shelf life for strawberries contaminated with either A. niger or B. cinerea during cold storage period, with durations of 39 and 28 days, respectively. Conclusion: These findings shed light on unexplored aspects and propose novel perspectives regarding the potential use of written phrases and words to enhance food quality and mitigate fungal contamination in fruits and vegetable products.
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