Visualization and morphological analysis of the void distribution in pea sprouts before and after postharvest regrowth

Abstract

The effects of regrowth on the internal structure of green pea sprouts. Using X-ray micro-CT, void distribution was successfully visualized and characterized in sprouts before and after regrowth. In the CT images, a cavity appeared at the center of the stem after regrowth. Individual void analysis using Avizo software for three-dimensional void structures showed a shift in the void volume distribution after regrowth with the emergence of irregularly shaped voids. However, textural analysis indicated a significant decrease in crispness after regrowth. This study suggested that the decrease in crispness correlated with void distribution modifications. In addition, metabolome analysis revealed the downregulation of mannitol and other carbohydrates, indicating reduced photosynthetic activity and sustained aerobic respiration in regrown sprouts.