Combating Food Waste: A Passion-Driven Journey

Shikhadri Mahanta, a Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences student, is on a mission to tackle the global issue of food waste. With a deep-rooted passion for agriculture and a commitment to scientific innovation, Mahanta is exploring the use of cutting-edge technology to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure food security for all.

Unlocking the Potential of Cold Plasma to Preserve Grains

Addressing the Paradox of Abundance and Hunger

Mahanta's journey began with a stark realization: "The world today produces so much food that it could feed 1.5 times the population, but yet a third of the people are still hungry." This contradiction fueled her determination to find solutions that could bridge the gap between food production and distribution.

Pioneering Research in Post-Harvest Engineering

As a doctoral student in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Mahanta is at the forefront of research aimed at combating food waste. Her work in the Post Harvest Engineering and Education research lab focuses on utilizing cold plasma technology to enhance the functional properties of grains and reduce losses during storage and processing.

Harnessing the Power of Cold Plasma

Cold plasma, a novel technology, has the ability to alter the molecular structure of biological commodities, including grains. By treating wheat grains with cold plasma, Mahanta aims to control the growth of unwanted microorganisms that cause spoilage and reduce the presence of harmful toxins. This innovative approach offers an alternative to traditional chemical-based methods, providing a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly solution.

Transforming Wheat Flour Processing

Mahanta's research extends beyond grains, as she explores the potential of cold plasma in the processing of wheat flour. "For wheat flour, plasma can be used as an alternative to chlorine. Essentially, to bleach, it can be treated with plasma technology rather than having to use chemicals," she explains. This breakthrough could revolutionize the flour industry, reducing the reliance on harsh chemicals and enhancing the overall quality and safety of the final product.

Serving the Scientific Community and Beyond

Mahanta's ultimate goal is to serve the scientific community and maintain her involvement in agricultural research after graduation. She aspires to raise awareness about the diverse resources available for agriculture and highlight the transformative potential of technology in this field. By sharing her knowledge and experiences, Mahanta hopes to inspire others to join the fight against food waste, particularly in the post-harvest stage, where significant losses often occur.

Discovering Her Passion: From Dairy Science to Post-Harvest Engineering

Mahanta's journey to Texas A&M and her current field of study was not a straight path. As an undergraduate in India, she majored in dairy science, but a pivotal internship at Purdue University opened her eyes to the world of post-harvest engineering. It was during this experience that she discovered her true calling, leading her to pursue her doctoral studies at Texas A&M under the guidance of Dr. Janie Moore.

Embracing the Challenges and Opportunities at Texas A&M

Mahanta's decision to study at Texas A&M was driven by the university's reputation for cutting-edge research and the support of its faculty. She was particularly drawn to the work of Dr. Janie Moore, whose expertise in reducing losses in grains aligned with Mahanta's own research interests.

Navigating the Rigors of Graduate Studies

Mahanta's graduate experience has been marked by both challenges and transformative experiences. She cites a particular class, "unit processing," as her favorite, despite its demanding nature. The professor's strict and organized approach pushed Mahanta to excel, helping her realize the depth of knowledge required in her field.

Sharing Knowledge as a Teaching Assistant

Mahanta's role as a teaching assistant has been a rewarding aspect of her graduate experience. She enjoys the opportunity to work with undergraduate students, reflecting on her own past experiences and gaining new perspectives from their curiosity and questions. Mahanta finds fulfillment in being surrounded by aspiring learners and contributing to their growth.

Expanding Horizons through the ANRP Program

Mahanta's involvement in the Agricultural and Natural Resources Policy (ANRP) program at Texas A&M has been a transformative experience. Her summer internship at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Rome provided her with a unique glimpse into the intricacies of global policymaking and the importance of bridging the gap between academia and international organizations.

Mentorship and Inspiration: The Guiding Role of Dr. Janie Moore

Throughout her journey, Mahanta has found unwavering support and inspiration in her mentor, Dr. Janie Moore. As her professor and research advisor, Dr. Moore has been a constant source of encouragement, instilling confidence in Mahanta and providing the essential guidance graduate students need. Mahanta is deeply grateful for Dr. Moore's mentorship, which extends beyond academics to include emotional support and assistance in accessing various financial opportunities.

Embracing the Diversity and Camaraderie at Texas A&M

Mahanta's experience at Texas A&M has been enriched by the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. She particularly cherishes the moments when she has connected with fellow students from her home region of Northeastern India, as well as the joy of discovering common interests and experiences with individuals from all walks of life.

Advice for Prospective Students: Embrace the Journey

Mahanta's advice to prospective students considering Texas A&M is to embrace the university's wealth of opportunities and resources. She encourages students to be actively involved in various organizations and events, as these experiences can greatly enhance their personal and professional growth. Mahanta emphasizes the importance of maintaining an open mindset, as college is a continuous journey of learning that extends beyond the classroom.