This project is investigating whether ‘electrolysed oxidising’ or ‘EO’ water can be used to increase the quality of vegetable irrigation water. Specific project activities include comparing the efficiency of EO water with that of other options for treating irrigation water for relevant water-borne pathogens; discerning whether EO water treatment can prevent potential microbial contamination or fresh produce pre-harvest; assessing the ability of EO water to control soil pathogens, and any effect on important soil microorganisms; and ultimately developing protocols for EO water adoption by Australia’s vegetable growers.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Vegetable Fund