Laser-driven sustainable modulation of growth, metabolomics, bioactive compounds, and physical attributes in...

Sprouts are valued for their bioactive compounds, yet conventional methods limit their biochemical potential. This study introduces a laser treatment (450 nm, 85 mW) to enhance the biochemical and physicochemical quality of broccoli, radish, and kale sprouts. Laser-treated seeds were germinated at 25 °C for 120 h and assessed for germination rate and biochemical properties, including total phenolics (TPC), flavonoids (TFC), antioxidant activity (DPPH), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) activity. UHPLC-HRMS-based metabolomics revealed enhanced glucosinolate and flavonoid pathways. Optimal exposure (180 s) significantly increased TPC (broccoli: 22.6, radish: 25.2, kale: 27.8 mg GAE/g), TFC (broccoli: 42.7, radish: 53.4, kale: 54.4 mg QE/g), and antioxidant activity (broccoli: 10.95, radish: 20.68, kale: 25.09 μmol TE/g). Laser treatment also elevated GABA (broccoli: 4.5, radish: 4.2, kale: 4.8 mg/100 g) and PAL levels (broccoli and kale: 17, radish: 15 mg/h/100 g). SEM, DSC, and texture analyses indicated greater surface roughness, improved thermal stability (ΔTd = +6-8 °C), and reduced compressibility (16-20 %), reflecting beneficial physicochemical modifications.