Method for increasing phenolic compounds in plants and irradiation device for the method

Abstract

To provide a method capable of efficiently increasing the levels of phenolic compounds in plants.SOLUTION: The present disclosure provides a method for increasing phenolic compounds in plants, or a method for producing a plant with the increased content of phenolic compounds, the method including: simultaneously irradiating the plant for 12 hours or longer with ultraviolet light having a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less of 1.0×10-3 μmol / m2 / s or more and 1.0×10 μmol / m2 / s or less, a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 280 nm or more and 320 nm or less of less than 2.5 μmol / m2 / s, and a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm that is less than 20% of the photon flux density in a wavelength range of 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and visible light having a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less of 1.0×10 μmol / m2 / s or more and 6.0×102 μmol / m2 / s or less.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method for increasing phenolic compounds in plants and an irradiation device for said method. [Background technology]

[0002] Phenolic compounds in plants, such as polyphenols and anthocyanins, have been found to have various physiological activities, such as antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, and antihypertensive activity, and have been attracting a great deal of attention in recent years due to the growing health consciousness. Therefore, techniques have been developed to increase the amount of phenolic compounds contained in plants. Patent Document 1 describes the application of 150 to 600 μmol / m 2 / s for visible light, and 100 μW / cm 2 This document describes a method for increasing polyphenol yield in plants, characterized by irradiating the plants with the above-mentioned UV-B light. This document describes that in the method for increasing polyphenol yield, wavelengths of 280 to 300 nm are removed from UV-B light (light with a wavelength range of 280 to 320 nm). It also describes that wavelengths of 340 to 550 nm may be removed from the light irradiated to baby leaves. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2007-089430 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There remains a need for new methods that can efficiently increase the amount of phenolic compounds in plants. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] From one viewpoint, the present disclosure provides a method for applying a photon flux density of 1.0×10 to a plant in a wavelength region of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and simultaneously irradiating the plant with light for 12 hours or more.

[0006] From another viewpoint, the present disclosure provides a method for producing a light source for a plant, the light source comprising: -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and simultaneously irradiating the plant with at least one of these for 12 hours or more.

[0007] From yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides an irradiation device including at least one first light source capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm, and at least one second light source capable of emitting light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, wherein the irradiance of the light in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from the irradiation device can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device.

[0008] From yet another viewpoint, the present disclosure provides an irradiation device including at least one first' light source capable of emitting light in a first wavelength range, and at least one second' light source capable of emitting light in a second wavelength range different from the first wavelength range, wherein the irradiance of the light in the second' wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light in the first' wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the method of the present disclosure, a new method for efficiently increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in a plant can be provided, and a plant containing a large amount of phenolic compounds can be efficiently produced. Moreover, according to the irradiation device of the present disclosure, it is possible to irradiate light in two or more different wavelength ranges with large irradiance, for example, differences of two or more orders of magnitude. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing one embodiment of a first apparatus of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing another embodiment of the first apparatus of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing another embodiment of the first apparatus of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of a second apparatus of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs, irradiated or non-irradiated, obtained in Experiment 1. [Figure 6-1] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated with 280 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 2-1. [Figure 6-2] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated or not with 290 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 2-1. [Figure 6-3] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated or not with 300 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 2-1. [Figure 6-4] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated or not irradiated with 310 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 2-1. [Figure 6-5] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated with 320 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 2-1. [Figure 7-1] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated or not irradiated with 280 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 2-2. [Figure 7-2] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated with 290 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 2-2. [Figure 7-3] Photographs of leaf disks of large red-leaf lettuce seedlings irradiated or not with 300 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 2-2. [Figure 8-1] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 3, irradiated or not with 280 nm light and blue light. [Figure 8-2] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 3, irradiated or not with 290 nm light and blue light. [Figure 8-3] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 3, irradiated or not with 300 nm light and blue light. [Figure 8-4] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 3, irradiated or not with 310 nm light and blue light. [Figure 8-5] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 3, irradiated with 320 nm light and blue light or not. [Figure 9-1] Photographs of cherries irradiated with 280 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 4. [Figure 9-2] Photographs of cherries irradiated with 290 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 4. [Figure 9-3] Photographs of cherries irradiated with 300 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 4. [Figure 9-4] Photographs of cherries irradiated with 310 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 4. [Figure 9-5] Photographs of cherries irradiated with 320 nm light and blue light or not, obtained in Experiment 4. [Figure 10-1] Photographs of grapes exposed or not to 280 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 5. [Figure 10-2] Photographs of grapes exposed or not to 290 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 5. [Figure 10-3] Photographs of grapes exposed or not to 300 nm light and blue light, obtained in experiment 5. [Figure 10-4] Photographs of grapes exposed or not to 310 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 5. [Figure 10-5] Photographs of grapes exposed or not to 320 nm light and blue light, obtained in Experiment 5. [Figure 11-1]Photographs of leaves from red leaf lettuce seedlings exposed or not to the indicated light obtained in Experiment 6. [Figure 11-2] Photographs of leaves from red leaf lettuce seedlings exposed or not to the indicated light obtained in Experiment 6. [Figure 12] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs, irradiated and non-irradiated, obtained in Experiment 7. [Figure 13-1] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 8, irradiated or not with 271 nm light and blue light. [Figure 13-2] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 8, irradiated or not with 280 nm light and blue light. [Figure 13-3] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 8, irradiated or not with 310 nm light and blue light. [Figure 13-4] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 8, irradiated or not with 332 nm light and blue light. [Figure 13-5] Photographs of post-harvest red leaf lettuce leaf discs obtained in Experiment 8, irradiated or not with 340 nm light and blue light. [Figure 14] Photographs of red leaf lettuce seedlings obtained in Experiment 11, with or without exposure to the indicated lights. [Figure 15] The emission spectra of the ultraviolet LEDs used in Experiments 1 to 11 are shown. [Figure 16] The emission spectrum of the visible light LED used in Experiments 1 to 10 is shown. [Figure 17] 1 shows the emission spectrum of the visible light source used in Experiment 11. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] In this specification, the numerical range "a to b" (where a and b are specific numerical values) means a range including the values ​​"a" and "b" at both ends. In other words, "a to b" is synonymous with "a or more and b or less."

[0012] The present disclosure provides, from a first aspect, a method for increasing a phenolic compound in a plant, the method comprising: The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and the like for 12 hours or more simultaneously (hereinafter also referred to as the "method of increasing the amount of the present disclosure").

[0013] In a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for producing a plant having an increased content of phenolic compounds, the method comprising: The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and irradiating the same to the above-mentioned compounds simultaneously for 12 hours or more (hereinafter also referred to as the "production method of the present disclosure"). Hereinafter, the "quantity increase method of the present disclosure" and the "production method of the present disclosure" may be collectively referred to as the "method of the present disclosure."

[0014] In the method of the present disclosure, the plant is exposed to ultraviolet light and visible light simultaneously. In this specification, when the term "ultraviolet light" is used, it refers to light (electromagnetic waves) having a wavelength within 200 to 400 nm, which is irradiated to a plant simultaneously with visible light according to the method of the present disclosure, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Ultraviolet light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less. The photon flux density of ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, adverse effects of ultraviolet light on plants, such as yellowing or dwarfing of leaves, can be reduced or avoided, while in combination with visible light, the content of phenolic compounds in the plants can be efficiently increased.

[0015] The maximum absorption wavelength of DNA and RNA is around 260 nm, and there is concern that light with a wavelength of around 260 nm may have a significant adverse effect on cells. For this reason, the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm to less than 265 nm is preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10%, even more preferably less than 5%, and most preferably less than 1% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm. Ultraviolet light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 The wavelength spectrum is not particularly limited as long as the photon flux density is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm.

[0016] The photon flux density of ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or less. The photon flux density of ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s, and may be less than 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less.

[0017] Ultraviolet light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 275 nm to 295 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 295 nm to 315 nm is 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or light with a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. Ultraviolet light also has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 275 nm to 295 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, or the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 295 nm to 315 nm is 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 315 nm to 345 nm is 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. Ultraviolet light also has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 275 nm to 285 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 300 nm to 315 nm is 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or light with a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. Ultraviolet light also has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 275 nm to 285 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, or the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 300 nm to 315 nm is 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 315 nm to 345 nm is 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less.

[0018] The ultraviolet light may be a component itself within a wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, contained in sunlight under any weather conditions. That is, it may be irradiated to a plant as a component of sunlight, or may be a component within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, extracted from sunlight using an optical filter or the like, or a component within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, contained in sunlight after passing through a light-transmitting material. Hereinafter, such components are collectively referred to as "ultraviolet light derived from sunlight" (when irradiated alone as ultraviolet light) or "ultraviolet light components derived from sunlight" (when irradiated in combination with ultraviolet light components derived from artificial light sources (see below)). Additionally or alternatively, the ultraviolet light may be a component in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, contained in the light emitted from an artificial light source, or a component in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, extracted from the light emitted from the artificial light source by an optical filter or the like. Hereinafter, such components are collectively referred to as "ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source" (when irradiated alone as ultraviolet light) or "ultraviolet light component derived from an artificial light source" (when irradiated in combination with an ultraviolet light component derived from sunlight). The artificial light source is not particularly limited as long as it can irradiate light in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, and for example, a commonly used ultraviolet light source such as a UV lamp can be used. Examples of the UV lamp include a light-emitting diode (LED), a laser diode (LD), a xenon lamp, a fluorescent lamp, an incandescent lamp, a metal halide lamp, and a high-pressure mercury lamp.

[0019] Alternatively, the ultraviolet light may be irradiated in a time-separated manner, either simultaneously as a combination of ultraviolet light components derived from sunlight and ultraviolet light components derived from an artificial light source, i.e., as a "composite light," and / or separately. In certain embodiments, the ultraviolet light is irradiated by irradiating only ultraviolet light derived from sunlight, then irradiating a composite light of ultraviolet light components derived from sunlight and ultraviolet light components derived from an artificial light source, and then, if necessary, irradiating only ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source. When the plants used in the method of the present disclosure are grown in an artificial light type plant factory or are post-harvested or uncultivated plants, the ultraviolet light may consist solely of ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source. When the plants used in the method of the present disclosure are cultivated in a sunlight-type plant factory, the ultraviolet light may consist of only ultraviolet light derived from sunlight, only ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source, or a composite light of ultraviolet light components derived from sunlight and ultraviolet light components derived from an artificial light source, depending on the photon flux density of the ultraviolet light derived from sunlight. In the method of the present disclosure, it is preferable that ultraviolet light or ultraviolet light components derived from an artificial light source are not irradiated to a plant if the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less is less than a predetermined amount, where the predetermined amount may be referred to below as a "second predetermined amount."

[0020] From the viewpoint of energy efficiency, ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source may be irradiated as light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, more specifically in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, or as light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, more specifically in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm, or as light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm, or as a combination of any two or all three of the three types of light, simultaneously, i.e., as a "composite light", or separately, in a time-division manner. In one type of light, it is preferable that the second peak does not exist, or even if it exists, its intensity is 1 / 10 or less of the main peak. In the composite light, it is preferable that the peak does not exist outside the wavelength range, or even if it exists, its intensity is 1 / 10 or less of the largest peak in the wavelength range. In this specification, the term "main peak wavelength" refers to the peak wavelength at which the intensity is maximum. For light whose spectrum shows a single peak, such as LED light, the "peak wavelength" is synonymous with the "main peak wavelength." In the composite light, it is preferable that the two or three peaks with the highest intensity are within the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, more specifically within the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, and / or the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm.

[0021] In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light has a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less of light is irradiated to the plant. In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light has a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or less, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light has a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light has a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or less, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. In the above embodiment, any two or all three types of ultraviolet light may be selected and irradiated to the plant separately or simultaneously (as a composite light). However, from the viewpoint of energy efficiency and economy, it is preferable to select any one type of light, specifically light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, more specifically light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm.

[0022] When the ultraviolet light includes light in the wavelength range of 270 nm to 310 nm, light in this wavelength range has a bactericidal or bacteriostatic effect, so that the plants used in the method of the present disclosure can be sterilized or bacteriostatic, for example, the growth of mold can be suppressed.

[0023] In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light includes light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 280±5 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, or light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 310±7 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, or light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 330±5 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm. In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light is light emitted from an LED or LD having a single peak in the emission spectrum. When an LED or LD is used as a light source, it is easy to efficiently irradiate light in a wavelength range effective for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in plants. In addition, the use of an LED or LD is preferable from the viewpoint of energy efficiency and economy due to low heat generation, low power consumption, and long life. In addition, it is easy to control / manage the irradiation amount and / or photon flux density.

[0024] The ultraviolet light may be irradiated to the plant as continuous light or intermittent light, or a combination thereof. The continuous light may be ultraviolet light derived from sunlight, ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source, or a composite light of ultraviolet light components derived from sunlight and ultraviolet light components derived from an artificial light source. The ultraviolet light derived from an artificial light source or the ultraviolet light components derived from an artificial light source (particularly, those having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, more specifically, in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm) is preferably irradiated as intermittent light, more preferably as pulsed light. By using intermittent light, it is possible to avoid or reduce a rise in temperature of the plant and / or the light source, and / or to further reduce adverse effects on the plant. Here, intermittent light refers to light that is turned on and off periodically or irregularly. On the other hand, pulsed light refers to light that is turned on and off alternately at a fixed time interval. The time interval of the pulsed light is defined by the duty ratio and the pulse period. The intermittent light or pulsed light is irradiated to the plant in at least two consecutive flashing trains or pulse trains. The intermittent light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10μmol / m in the wavelength range of 400nm to 500nm. 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 By irradiating the plant with visible light having a wavelength of 1000 nm or less per second, the content of phenolic compounds in the plant can be increased. When the intermittent light is pulsed light, the pulsed light has, for example, a duty ratio of 0.1% to 20%, more specifically, 0.5% to 20%, more specifically, 1% to 10%, and a pulse frequency of 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 5.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -3 Hz or higher 2.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 1.0×10 2 Hz or less. A specific example of pulsed light is one with a duty ratio of 1% to 10% and a pulse period of 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 5.0×10 2Hz or less, more preferably 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more preferably 1.0×10 -3 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more preferably 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more preferably 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 1.0×10 2 Hz or less. When controlling illuminance by high-frequency pulse width modulation, it is necessary to take into consideration the high-frequency characteristics of LED drive circuits such as LED drivers, which makes the design more complex. For this reason, from an economical point of view, it is desirable for the upper limit of the pulse frequency to be 300 Hz or less, and even more preferably 100 Hz or less.

[0025] In this specification, when ultraviolet light is irradiated as intermittent light, the photon flux density of each wavelength range is the average value during the period from the start of irradiation of the intermittent light to the end of irradiation (it should be noted that this is not the emission time of the ultraviolet light). Therefore, when the intermittent light is pulsed light that is periodically turned on and off, the photon flux density can be calculated as the photon flux density of each pulse light multiplied by the duty ratio of each pulse light as the average value within the pulse period. For example, when the photon flux density of each pulse light is 1.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 The photon flux density of a pulsed light with a duty ratio of 1% is 1.0×10 2 [μmol / m 2 / s] × 1[%] / 100 = 1.0 [μmol / m 2 / s], and the photon flux density of each pulse is 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 The photon flux density of a pulsed light with a duty ratio of 10% is 1.0×10 -1 [μmol / m 2 / s]×10[%] / 100=1.0×10 -2 [μmol / m 2 / s].

[0026] The photon flux density of a specific wavelength range of ultraviolet light irradiated to a plant is measured on the surface of the plant or in its vicinity using a photon sensor. The ultraviolet light and visible light can be measured by dispersing the respective wavelengths using a spectroscope or optical filter, but they can also be measured by turning on and off the ultraviolet light and visible light, respectively. In either case, a more accurate measurement can be achieved by turning on the light source for about 15 minutes before measuring the photon flux density, and measuring in a state where the light source is thermally saturated. The time to thermal saturation is not limited to 15 minutes, and a temperature sensor such as a thermocouple can be attached to the light source to observe the time to thermal saturation. When measuring by turning on and off the ultraviolet and visible light respectively, turn on the ultraviolet and visible light simultaneously, and after thermal saturation of both, turn off the light source that is not being measured and turn on only the light source that is to be measured. By measuring in this state, it is possible to measure the photon flux density without equipping the photon sensor with complex spectroscopic functions. Furthermore, the photon flux density can be measured with or without a plant placed under the light source. When measuring with a plant placed under the light source, the measurement is performed on the surface of the plant or in its vicinity. "In the vicinity" refers to within 15 mm from the surface of the plant that is irradiated with light. On the other hand, when measuring without a plant placed under the light source, the shape of the plant is measured in advance, and the measurement can be performed in the vicinity of the part of the plant's surface that is irradiated with light when the target plant is placed under the light source. In this case, "in the vicinity" refers to within 15 mm from the irradiated surface.

[0027] In a particular embodiment in which the plant is a plant under cultivation, particularly a plant cultivated in a solar-powered plant factory including a greenhouse, when the photon flux density of ultraviolet light in the measured wavelength range is lower than a first predetermined amount, which is a predetermined amount for the photon flux density in that wavelength range (in other words, when the difference between the photon flux density in the measured wavelength range and the first predetermined amount is greater than 0), the plant is irradiated with ultraviolet light in that wavelength range at a photon flux density equivalent to the first difference, which is the difference. The first predetermined amount is, for example, 1.0×10 for the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s, and may be selected from the range of 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or less than 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s. More specifically, the first predetermined amount is 1.0×10 for the wavelength range of 275 nm or more and 295 nm or less. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, and for the wavelength range of 295 nm to 315 nm, it can be 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s, and for the wavelength range of 315 nm to 345 nm, 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less. More specifically, the first predetermined amount is 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, and for the wavelength range of 300 nm to 315 nm, it can be 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2,5μmol / m 2 / s or less, and for the wavelength range of 315 nm to 345 nm, it can be 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less.

[0028] In this specification, when the term "visible light" is used, it refers to light having a wavelength within 400 to 700 nm, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, and which is to be irradiated to a plant simultaneously with ultraviolet light according to the method of the present disclosure. Visible light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10μmol / m in the wavelength range of 400nm to 500nm. 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less. The photon flux density of visible light in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, the irradiation time of ultraviolet light in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, which is simultaneously irradiated to the plant in order to increase the content of phenolic compounds in the plant, can be shortened. As a result, the content of phenolic compounds in the plant can be efficiently increased while reducing or avoiding adverse effects on the plant such as yellowing or dwarfing of leaves. In addition, as a secondary effect of increasing the content of phenolic compounds, the contents of ascorbic acid, glucosinolates, carotenoids, and GABA (γ-aminobutyric acid) can also be increased. Furthermore, as a result of the enhancement of antioxidant activity due to the increase in the content of phenolic compounds, it is also possible to impart antibacterial and / or antifungal effects.

[0029] Visible light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10μmol / m in the wavelength range of 400nm to 500nm. 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 As long as the wavelength spectrum is equal to or less than 100 s / s, the wavelength spectrum is not particularly limited and may or may not include light with wavelengths exceeding 500 nm. The photon flux density in the visible light wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is, more specifically, 2.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 2.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 3.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 3.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 4.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 4.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 4.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 4.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 3.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 5.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 3.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less.

[0030] The visible light may be a component in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm contained in sunlight under any weather conditions. In other words, it may be irradiated to a plant as a component of sunlight, or may be a component in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm extracted from sunlight using an optical filter or the like, or a component in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm contained in sunlight after passing through a light-transmitting material. Hereinafter, these components are collectively referred to as "visible light derived from sunlight" (when irradiated alone as visible light) or "visible light components derived from sunlight" (when irradiated in combination with visible light components derived from artificial light sources (see below)). Additionally or alternatively, the visible light may be a component in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm contained in the light emitted from an artificial light source, or a component in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm extracted from the light emitted from the artificial light source by an optical filter or the like. Hereinafter, such components are collectively referred to as "visible light derived from an artificial light source" (when irradiated alone as visible light) or "visible light component derived from an artificial light source" (when irradiated in combination with a visible light component derived from sunlight). The artificial light source is not particularly limited as long as it can irradiate light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm, and a white light source or blue light source generally used for plant growth or cultivation can be used. Examples of the white light source or blue light source include LED, LD, xenon lamp, fluorescent lamp, incandescent lamp, and mercury lamp.

[0031] Alternatively, the visible light may be applied in a time-split manner, either simultaneously as a combination of the visible light components derived from sunlight and the visible light components derived from an artificial light source, i.e., as a "composite light," and / or separately. In certain embodiments, the visible light is applied by applying only the visible light derived from sunlight, then applying a composite light of the visible light components derived from sunlight and the visible light components derived from the artificial light source, and then, if necessary, applying only the visible light derived from the artificial light source. When the plants used in the method of the present disclosure are grown in an artificial light type plant factory, the visible light consists solely of visible light derived from an artificial light source. When a plant used in the method of the present disclosure is cultivated in a sunlight-type plant factory, the visible light may consist of only sunlight-derived visible light, only visible light derived from an artificial light source, or a composite light of visible light components derived from sunlight and visible light components derived from an artificial light source, depending on the photon flux density of the visible light derived from sunlight.

[0032] Visible light derived from an artificial light source may be irradiated as light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm (more specifically, the wavelength range of 435 to 445 nm). In a specific embodiment, the visible light has a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and a photon flux density in the wavelength range of 50 to 300 μmol / m 2In another specific embodiment, the visible light has a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 435 to 445 nm and a photon flux density in the wavelength range of 50 to 300 μmol / m 2 / s is light. In a specific embodiment, the visible light is light emitted from an LED or LD having a single peak in the emission spectrum. When an LED or LD is used as a light source, it is easy to efficiently irradiate light in a wavelength range effective for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in plants. In addition, the use of an LED or LD is also preferable from the viewpoint of energy efficiency and economy due to low heat generation, low power consumption, and long life. In addition, it is easy to control / manage the irradiation amount and / or photon flux density.

[0033] The photon flux density of visible light in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm irradiated onto a plant may be measured using a photon sensor on or near the surface of the plant, where near means within 15 mm of the irradiated surface.

[0034] In a specific embodiment in which the plant is a plant under cultivation, particularly a plant cultivated in a solar-powered plant factory including a greenhouse, when the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less is lower than a second predetermined amount, which is a predetermined amount for the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less (in other words, when the difference between the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less and the second predetermined amount is greater than 0), the plant is irradiated with visible light including the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less, at a photon flux density equivalent to the second difference, which is the difference. The second predetermined amount is, for example, 1.0×10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s, for example, 2.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 3.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 3.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 4.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 4.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 4.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 4.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 3.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 5.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 3.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less.

[0035] In this specification, "simultaneously" with respect to irradiation of ultraviolet light and visible light does not preclude the presence of a period during which only visible light is irradiated. In other words, when ultraviolet light is irradiated as intermittent light (particularly pulsed light), "simultaneously" means that the irradiation period of the intermittent light coincides with the irradiation period of the visible light. In this specification, the "irradiation time" refers to the irradiation time as continuous light or intermittent light, that is, from the start of irradiation of continuous light or intermittent light to the end of irradiation. In other words, it should be noted that when ultraviolet light is irradiated as pulsed light, the total lighting time of each pulsed light is not the irradiation time. For example, if intermittent ultraviolet light (more specifically, pulsed light) and continuous visible light are irradiated for a 12-hour period from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following day, starting at 6 p.m. and ending at 6 a.m. the following day, this is considered to have been irradiated "simultaneously." Here, the final turning on of the intermittent ultraviolet light (more specifically, pulsed light) is preferably performed within the last 1 / 2 of the "simultaneous" irradiation period, more preferably within the last 1 / 3 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 4 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 5 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 6 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 8 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 10 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 12 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 16 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 18 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 24 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 30 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 36 of the period, more preferably within the last 1 / 40 of the period, and more preferably within the last 1 / 48 of the period.

[0036] In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light and the visible light simultaneously irradiated to the plant have a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m2 / s or more and 6.0 × 10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less. In this embodiment, the composite light has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m2 / s or more and 6.0 × 10 2 μmol / m 2 The wavelength spectrum is not particularly limited as long as it is less than / s. Preferably, the photon flux density of the composite light in the wavelength range of 200 nm to less than 265 nm is less than 20%, more preferably less than 15%, more preferably less than 10%, more preferably less than 5%, and more preferably less than 1% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm. Also, the photon flux density of the composite light in the wavelength range of 550 nm to 800 nm may be less than 50%, more specifically less than 40%, more specifically less than 30%, more specifically less than 20%, more specifically less than 10%, more specifically less than 5%, and more specifically less than 1% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm.

[0037] The lower limit of the irradiation time of ultraviolet light and visible light is not particularly limited, as long as it can increase the amount of phenolic compounds in the irradiated plant. The lower limit of the irradiation time can be, for example, 8 hours, more specifically 10 hours, more specifically 12 hours, more specifically 16 hours, more specifically 20 hours, more specifically 24 hours, more specifically 30 hours, more specifically 36 hours, more specifically 42 hours, more specifically 48 hours, more specifically 54 hours, more specifically 60 hours, more specifically 66 hours, more specifically 72 hours. The upper limit of the irradiation time of ultraviolet light and visible light is not particularly limited as long as the cells of the irradiated plant are alive. Specifically, the upper limit of the irradiation time of ultraviolet light and visible light is until the cells of the irradiated plant are necrotic. The upper limit of the irradiation time can be, for example, 240 hours, more specifically 228 hours, more specifically 216 hours, more specifically 204 hours, more specifically 192 hours, more specifically 180 hours, more specifically 168 hours, more specifically 156 hours, more specifically 144 hours, more specifically 132 hours, more specifically 120 hours, more specifically 108 hours, more specifically 102 hours, more specifically 96 hours. A specific example of the irradiation time of ultraviolet light and visible light may be, for example, 8 hours to 240 hours, more specifically 10 hours to 228 hours, more specifically 12 hours to 216 hours, more specifically 16 hours to 204 hours, more specifically 20 hours to 192 hours, more specifically 24 hours to 180 hours, more specifically 30 hours to 168 hours, more specifically 36 hours to 156 hours, more specifically 42 hours to 144 hours, more specifically 48 hours to 132 hours, more specifically 54 hours to 120 hours, more specifically 60 hours to 108 hours, more specifically 66 hours to 102 hours, and more specifically 72 hours to 96 hours.

[0038] According to the method of the present disclosure, ultraviolet light (particularly, light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, more particularly, light in a wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm) and visible light (particularly, light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm) are irradiated to a plant simultaneously, thereby shortening the irradiation time for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in the plant, compared with the case where each light is irradiated alone or separately at a time interval. As a result, the occurrence of yellowing or dwarfing of leaves can be reduced. This reduces cell necrosis, and can further increase the effect of increasing the amount of phenolic compounds. In addition, damage to the commercial value of the plant can be avoided or reduced.

[0039] In this specification, "plant" includes parts of a plant, unless the context clearly indicates that only the whole plant is meant. A "part" of a plant is one or more organs selected from the root system, stems including rhizomes, leaves, flowers, fruits including fruit clusters, and seeds, particularly fruit, or components of the organs (e.g., pericarp, which is a component of a fruit), and may be, for example, the shoot system, more specifically, stems and leaves, and optionally flowers and / or fruits, or stems, leaves, fruits, or pericarp. From the viewpoint of ease and / or efficiency of light irradiation, the part of the plant is preferably the flower, the leaf, and / or the fruit or the pericarp. In the present specification, the plant is not particularly limited as long as the plant can synthesize a phenolic compound. The plant may be, for example, an angiosperm. In certain embodiments, the plant is one that can naturally produce anthocyanins. In specific embodiments, the plant is one or parts thereof that can be colored with anthocyanins.

[0040] Plants suitable for the methods of the present disclosure include, for example, plants of the Vitaceae family (particularly the Vitis genus), Ericaceae (particularly the Vaccinium genus), Solanaceae (particularly the Solanum genus), Fabaceae (particularly the Glycine genus, Vaccinium genus, Phaseolus genus, and Arachis genus), Amaryllidaceae (particularly the Allium genus), Rosaceae (particularly the Rubus genus, Rubus genus, Prunus genus, Prunus genus, Malus genus, and Aronia genus), Asteraceae (particularly the Lamiaceae genus), Lamiaceae (particularly the Perilla genus), Convolvulaceae (particularly the Ipomoea genus), Ribesaceae (particularly the Ribes genus), Brassicaceae (particularly the Brassica genus and the Radish genus), and Poaceae (particularly the Oryza genus and the Maize genus). Specific examples of plants that can be used in the method of the present disclosure include grapes, apples, cherry blossoms (fruits; cherries), apricots, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, cowberries, lettuce (particularly leaf lettuce, more specifically red leaf lettuce (so-called "sunny lettuce"), eggplants, tomatoes, shiso (particularly red shiso), onions, soybeans (particularly black soybeans), kidney beans (particularly black kidney beans), adzuki beans, sweet potatoes (particularly purple sweet potatoes), black currants, cabbages (particularly red cabbage), radishes (particularly red radishes), rice (particularly black rice or purple rice), and corn (particularly purple corn).

[0041] In the present specification, the plant may be a plant that has a UVR8 photoreceptor. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that light in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, upregulates the expression of genes for enzymes and transcription factors involved in the biosynthetic pathway of phenolic compounds (e.g., phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, etc.) via the plant's UVR8 photoreceptor, thereby activating the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds in the plant. In a preferred embodiment, the plant has not been genetically engineered to increase the expression of an enzyme involved in the biosynthetic pathway of the phenolic compound to be increased in its cells. As used herein, "genetic engineering" generally refers to the use of recombinant DNA technology, particularly recombinant DNA technology, genome editing technology, or chemical mutagenesis, and does not include the use of cross breeding in a natural environment. Genetic engineering can be, for example, the introduction of exogenous genes, coding sequences, and / or regulatory elements (e.g., promoters, enhancers, suppressors, silencers), modification of endogenous genes, coding sequences, and / or regulatory elements, and / or deletion of all or part of endogenous genes, coding sequences, and / or regulatory elements. In a more preferred embodiment, the plant is not genetically engineered.

[0042] In a particular embodiment, the plant is a plant under cultivation. In a specific embodiment, the plant under cultivation is a plant in the coloring stage (particularly, a plant whose fruit or leaves are in the coloring stage). It may also be a plant in the harvesting stage (particularly, a plant within 2 days, 3 days, or 5 days before the harvest date). In a more specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light (particularly, light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm) and visible light (particularly, light within a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm) may be irradiated to the plant under cultivation only at night (more specifically, after sunset to before sunrise). Since there are no workers in the cultivation area at night, it is easy to ensure safety against ultraviolet light. In addition, the cultivation area can be closed off as necessary. Cultivation may be in soil or in a nutrient solution (e.g., hydroponics or solid medium culture). The nutrient solution culture may be carried out under sterile conditions. Cultivation may be carried out in a controlled environment. The controlled environmental conditions include, for example, light-dark cycle, temperature, humidity, amount of natural and / or artificial light, and carbon dioxide concentration. These conditions are not particularly limited as long as they are suitable for the cultivation / growth of the plant used. The light / dark cycle can be appropriately selected according to the plant to be cultivated and the growth stage (for example, long-day conditions with a light period of 14 to 18 hours, or short-day conditions with a light period of 6 to 10 hours). As a light source of artificial light including visible light, conventionally used incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, white lamps, high-pressure sodium lamps, metal halide lamps, LEDs, etc. can be used. The artificial light is irradiated with a photosynthetic photon flux density that is appropriately set according to the plant to be cultivated and the growth stage. The photosynthetic photon flux density during the light period is, for example, 100 to 500 μmol / m 2 / s. The temperature may be, for example, 20 to 30° C., and the humidity may be, for example, 50 to 80%. The carbon dioxide concentration may be, for example, about 1000 to 1500 ppm. The fertilizer / liquid fertilizer can be appropriately selected depending on the plant to be cultivated. Generally, the fertilizer / liquid fertilizer contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the method of the present disclosure comprises: The plant is a plant being cultivated, particularly a plant being cultivated in a sunlight-type plant factory including a greenhouse, The method further comprises measuring a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, and a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm on or near the surface of the plant; When a first difference, which is a difference between a first predetermined amount of photon flux density in a wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, and the measured photon flux density on or near the surface of the plant, is greater than 0, the plant is irradiated with the ultraviolet light at a photon flux density corresponding to the first difference, The visible light is characterized in that when a second difference, which is the difference between a second predetermined amount of photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less and the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less on the surface of the plant or in its vicinity, is greater than 0, the plant is irradiated with a photon flux density corresponding to the second difference. Here, since the amount of light in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm is small in sunlight, the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm may be irradiated to a first predetermined amount, and the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm may be obtained only from sunlight. In this case, the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm may be measured, and if it does not reach the second predetermined amount, the irradiation of light in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm may be stopped. This is because if the light in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm is continued to be irradiated to the plant when the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm does not reach the second predetermined amount, the plant may be damaged by ultraviolet rays.

[0044] Photon flux density is the number of moles of photons per square meter per second of light irradiated onto a plant using a photon sensor [μmol / m 2 The photon sensor may be, for example, a photon sensor that uses a photodiode such as a CCD or CMOS in the light receiving section, preferably a photon sensor calibrated using a light source or a light receiver that complies with the standards of the National Institute of Standards and Technology or the Japan Calibration Service System (JCSS). The first and second predetermined amounts are as described above for ultraviolet light and visible light, respectively. In this particular embodiment, the plant under cultivation may be 1-5 days before harvesting. By irradiating the plant according to the method of the present disclosure for 1-5 days (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, or 5 days) before harvesting, the plant will have an increased content of phenolic compounds or be well colored at the time of harvesting. The plant irradiated with ultraviolet light and visible light by the method of the present disclosure may be harvested, for example, within 24 hours, more specifically within 16 hours, more specifically within 12 hours, more specifically within 8 hours, more specifically within 6 hours, more specifically within 4 hours after the irradiation. The harvested plant may be washed and / or cut or crushed to an appropriate size as necessary, and then packaged in a packaging material or packed in a packaging material as a product, for example, a food product or a functional food (special health food or nutrient functional food), a raw material for a pharmaceutical or other industrial product. The packaging material or packaging material may be made of a light-shielding material, more specifically a light-shielding material with respect to photosynthetically active radiation. When the packaging material or packaging material is light-shielding, the dark storage effect described later can also be obtained. In a specific embodiment, the ultraviolet light and the visible light irradiated to the plant at photon flux densities corresponding to the first and second differences, respectively, are light derived from an artificial light source.

[0045] In another specific embodiment, the plant is a post-harvest or non-cultivated plant. In this specification, the non-cultivated state refers to a state in which there is no nutrient supply and water supply through the roots, but the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds (particularly anthocyanins) (synthesis by the action of the enzymes of the plant) is possible. The post-harvest or non-cultivated plant may be transported or stored under natural light or in the dark, at room temperature (e.g., 15 to 30°C) or at low temperature (e.g., 0 to 15°C). The post-harvest or non-cultivated plant may be washed and / or cut to an appropriate size before irradiation according to the method of the present disclosure. The irradiated post-harvest or non-cultivated plant may be washed and / or cut or crushed to an appropriate size as necessary, and then packaged in a packaging material as a product, for example, a food product or a functional food (a food for specified health uses or a food with nutrient function claims), a pharmaceutical product, or other industrial product raw material. The plant after harvest or in an uncultivated state may be wrapped in a packaging material before irradiation according to the method of the present disclosure. The packaging material preferably has a transmittance of 40% or more, more preferably 50% or more, more preferably 60% or more, more preferably 70% or more, more preferably 80% or more for light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. The packaging material also preferably has a transmittance of 5% or more, more preferably 10% or more, more preferably 20% or more, more preferably 30% or more for light in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm (particularly light in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm, more specifically light in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm and / or light in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm and / or light in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm). Examples of materials for such packaging materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyamide (PA), cellophane, polyethylene (PE), and polypropylene (PP). The packaging material is not particularly limited with respect to its shape, and may be in a commonly used shape, for example, in the form of a sheet, bag, cylinder, or container.

[0046] In a specific embodiment, the plant is a plant that is packaged in a packaging material. The packaged plant can be irradiated with ultraviolet light and visible light through the packaging material, for example, in a store showcase, a storehouse or storage facility including a refrigerator (room) (including large-scale ones installed at collection points and small-scale ones installed in store backyards), or in a transport container or the luggage compartment of a truck. This allows the time during display, storage, or transportation to be used to increase the amount of phenolic compounds, thereby improving time efficiency and ultimately improving the freshness of the plant whose phenolic compound content has been increased by the method of the present disclosure.

[0047] In another specific embodiment, the plant is a plant with poor coloring, regardless of whether it is under cultivation, after harvest, or in a non-cultivated state. In this specification, "poor coloring" with respect to a plant refers to a state in which the whole plant or a specific part (e.g., leaves or skin) has color unevenness clearly identifiable with the naked eye, or the anthocyanin content in the whole plant or a specific part (e.g., leaves or skin) is less than the anthocyanin content inherent to the variety, or the coloring state of the whole plant or a specific part (e.g., leaves or skin) does not meet a predetermined standard. In a specific embodiment, the plant is a plant (especially a fruit) that has a sufficiently high sugar content and good taste (in other words, despite the sugar content and taste meeting the distribution standard), but has poor coloring in appearance. In a more specific embodiment, the plant is a plant that is being cultivated in a sunlight-type plant factory or an artificial light-type plant factory including a greenhouse, and is determined to have poor coloring. In this specific embodiment, the method of the present disclosure may further include determining whether or not the plant needs to be irradiated with ultraviolet light and visible light based on the coloring degree of the plant, and may further include harvesting the plant determined not to need irradiation with ultraviolet light and visible light. In the latter case, the ultraviolet light and visible light are irradiated on the plant determined to have poor coloring and not harvested. The determination may be performed by a harvesting robot equipped with an image sensor or a system including the robot, and may be performed for each individual plant or part of a plant (particularly, fruit). In another specific embodiment, the plant is in the coloring stage, regardless of whether it is being cultivated, harvested, or in an uncultivated state. In this specification, the "coloring stage" refers to a stage in which coloring components (e.g., anthocyanins) that are phenolic compounds are produced and accumulated in the whole or a specific part (e.g., leaves or peel) of the plant. In a more specific embodiment, the plant is in the coloring stage while being cultivated in a sunlight-type plant factory or an artificial light-type plant factory including a greenhouse. In this specific embodiment, the method of the present disclosure may further include determining whether or not irradiation of ultraviolet light and visible light is required for each predetermined section of a field in the factory based on the coloring degree, and irradiating ultraviolet light and visible light to the plant in the section that requires irradiation. The determination can be made based on image data captured from above and / or the side of the plant. For example, the determination can be made by calculating the percentage of the area that satisfies the average coloring degree or a predetermined coloring degree ("colored area ratio") in the image data obtained for each section, and comparing the calculated value with a predetermined value. If the calculated value for a particular section is lower than a predetermined value, only the plants in that section may be irradiated with ultraviolet light and visible light. In this case, the irradiation time of ultraviolet light and visible light irradiated to the plants in each section and / or the photon flux density of ultraviolet light may be changed according to the coloration degree of each section. This method allows the plants in a given section to be harvested at the same time. The sensor may be fixed above and / or to the side of the plants, or may be movable above and / or to the side of the plants.

[0048] In a specific embodiment, the plant does not contain the amount of phenolic compounds that the same plant at the same growth stage would normally contain or a predetermined standard amount (e.g., a standard amount established for shipping or sales, specifically, a standard amount for each grade). In another specific embodiment, the plant is a plant whose coloring state does not meet a predetermined standard condition (e.g., a standard condition established for shipping or sales, specifically, a standard condition for each grade) (i.e., a poorly colored plant). Whether or not the coloring state meets the predetermined standard condition may be determined, for example, by comparing the color of the plant (particularly, the skin or leaves) with a color chart or image data on good or poor coloring that has been created in advance for the plant, or by comparing the color of the plant ... * a * b * The color of the plant (particularly, the skin or leaves) expressed in the color system may be compared with each predetermined value, or the coloring degree of the plant (particularly, the skin or leaves) may be compared with a predetermined reference value. In this specification, the coloring degree is expressed as a value calculated from the RGB values ​​of the image data of the plant (particularly, the skin or leaves) by the formula Coloring degree = (RG) / (R + G). To determine whether the coloring state meets the predetermined reference condition, an artificial intelligence (AI) that has learned image data, RGB values, or Lab values ​​regarding good coloring and / or poor coloring may be used.

[0049] In a specific embodiment, the method of the present disclosure is characterized in that the plant is a harvested plant, the coloration degree of the surface of the plant is calculated, and the ultraviolet light and the visible light are irradiated to the plant when the coloration degree value is lower than a predetermined value based on the coloration degree. The predetermined amount of coloring degree can be determined in advance based on image data of a plant that has been determined to be well-colored or poorly-colored. In a more specific embodiment, the ultraviolet and visible light irradiated to the plant when the color intensity value is below a predetermined value is light derived from an artificial light source.

[0050] In certain embodiments, the method of the present disclosure may further include storing the plant in a dark place after simultaneous irradiation with the ultraviolet light and the visible light. By storing the plant irradiated according to the method of the present disclosure in a dark place, photosynthesis in the plant can be substantially prevented, and energy consumption by photosynthesis and activation of other synthetic systems can be avoided. As a result, the content of phenolic compounds in the plant irradiated according to the method of the present disclosure can be efficiently increased. In this specification, the term "dark place" refers to a place where the photosynthetic photon flux density is at a level that does not cause photosynthesis in the plant, more specifically, a place where the photosynthetic photon flux density is at a level of 10 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 5 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1 μmol / m 2 This refers to a location that is less than / s. The dark storage is preferably started as soon as possible after the simultaneous irradiation, for example, within 1 hour, more specifically, within 30 minutes, more specifically, within 15 minutes, and most preferably immediately after the irradiation. By storing the plant in the dark after the irradiation, the synthesis of phenolic compounds in the plant due to the irradiation continues during the storage, so that the amount of phenolic compounds in the plant can be further increased.

[0051] Dark storage may continue for, for example, 1 hour or more, more specifically 2 hours or more, more specifically 3 hours or more, more specifically 4 hours or more, more specifically 5 hours or more, more specifically 6 hours or more, more specifically 8 hours or more, more specifically 10 hours or more, more specifically 12 hours or more, more specifically 16 hours or more, more specifically 20 hours or more, more specifically 24 hours or more, more specifically 28 hours or more, more specifically 32 hours or more, more specifically 36 hours or more, more specifically 40 hours or more, more specifically 44 hours or more, more specifically 48 hours or more. The upper limit of the dark storage time is not particularly limited as long as the content of phenolic compounds in the plant is increased relative to the irradiated plant, but it may be, for example, 300 hours or less, more specifically 288 hours or less, more specifically 264 hours or less, more specifically 240 hours or less, more specifically 216 hours or less, more specifically 192 hours or less, more specifically 168 hours or less, more specifically 144 hours or less, more specifically 120 hours or less, more specifically 108 hours or less, more specifically 96 hours or less, more specifically 84 hours or less, and more specifically 72 hours or less. Specific examples of the dark storage time may be, for example, 1 hour to 300 hours, more specifically, 2 hours to 300 hours, more specifically, 3 hours to 300 hours, more specifically, 4 hours to 300 hours, more specifically, 5 hours to 300 hours, more specifically, 6 hours to 300 hours, more specifically, 8 hours to 288 hours, more specifically, 10 hours to 264 hours, more specifically, 12 hours to 240 hours, more specifically, 16 hours to 216 hours, more specifically, 20 hours to 192 hours, more specifically, 24 hours to 168 hours, more specifically, 28 hours to 144 hours, more specifically, 32 hours to 120 hours, more specifically, 36 hours to 108 hours, more specifically, 40 hours to 96 hours, more specifically, 44 hours to 84 hours, and more specifically, 48 hours to 72 hours.

[0052] Storage in the dark may be room temperature storage (for example, storage at a temperature between 10°C and 35°C, more specifically between 15°C and 30°C, depending on the location and season) or low temperature storage (for example, storage at a temperature above 0°C and below 10°C, more specifically between 4°C and 10°C). During storage, moisture may be supplied to the plant, for example, by spraying. From the viewpoint of preventing a decrease in the freshness of the plant, it is preferable to store the plant at a low temperature and / or while continuously or intermittently supplying moisture. Prevention of a decrease in the freshness of the plant may contribute to an efficient increase in the amount of phenolic compounds in the plant. Specifically, the dark place may be the inside of a storage or vault such as a refrigerator, a shipping container or the luggage compartment of a freight car, aircraft, ship or truck, or the inside of a light-blocking wrapping or packaging material such as cardboard.

[0053] In the present specification, the phenolic compound is not particularly limited as long as it can be naturally synthesized in the plant used, and may be, for example, phenylpropanoids and polyphenols. Polyphenols include, for example, flavonoids, tannins, and lignans. Flavonoids include, for example, anthocyanins, flavans (e.g., catechins), flavones, isoflavones, and flavonols. Anthocyanin is a glycoside in which a sugar chain (e.g., glucose, galactose, rhamnose) is bound to anthocyanidin. Common anthocyanidins contained in plants include pelargonidin, cyanidin, peonidin, delphinidin, petunidin, and malvidin. Anthocyanin is a pigment that is widely present in the plant kingdom and exhibits red to purple to blue colors, and is used as a plant colorant (e.g., in foods). It is also known as an antioxidant, and is one of the phenolic compounds suitable for increasing in plants by the method of the present disclosure. For example, one example of anthocyanin contained in Arabidopsis thaliana is represented by the following chemical formula:

[0054] [ka] (The part surrounded by lines is the anthocyanidin part, in this case the peonidin part.)

[0055] In this specification, "increased amount of phenolic compounds" or "increased content of phenolic compounds" refers to an increase in the amount of phenolic compounds, for example, an increase of 10% or more, preferably 20% or more, more preferably 50% or more, more preferably 100% or more, compared to a plant of the same species or cultivated species grown and / or stored under the same conditions except that it is not irradiated with ultraviolet light according to the present disclosure. Note that "increased amount of phenolic compounds" or "increased content of phenolic compounds" also includes the case where phenolic compounds that were not synthesized before irradiation are newly synthesized after irradiation. The quantification of the phenolic compounds can be carried out by chromatography, which can include liquid chromatography (e.g., HPLC). The liquid chromatography can be reverse phase chromatography.

[0056] By irradiating with ultraviolet light according to the present disclosure, it is possible to produce a plant having a phenolic compound content 1.1 times or more, preferably 1.2 times or more, more preferably 1.5 times or more, more preferably 2 times or more, for example 3 times or more higher than that of a non-irradiated plant. Thus, according to the method of the present disclosure, the produced plant can be provided as a high-added-value food at a low cost.

[0057] A plant produced by the production method of the present disclosure is suitable as a raw material for producing a phenolic compound whose content in the plant is increased. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a method for producing a phenolic compound, comprising: For plants, The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and light should be irradiated simultaneously for 12 hours or more. Obtaining phenolic compounds from said plants. Also provided is a method comprising:

[0058] The phenolic compounds can be obtained from plants by any method known in the art, for example by extraction from the plants (see, for example, International Publication No. WO 2018 / 199307). The phenolic compound produced by the above-mentioned production method can be used as a raw material for functional foods (foods for specified health uses and foods with nutrient functions), medicines, and other industrial products. Therefore, according to the method of the present disclosure, the produced phenolic compound can be provided inexpensively as a raw material for functional foods, medicines, and other industrial products.

[0059] As will be apparent from the examples below, the method of the present disclosure can increase the amount of carotenoids in climacteric fruits after harvest. Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a method for increasing carotenoids in a climacteric fruit, comprising: After harvest, the climacteric fruits The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and light should be irradiated simultaneously for 12 hours or more. Also provided is a method comprising: This method is useful for promoting the ripening, particularly the coloring, of climacteric fruits. The climacteric fruit is not particularly limited as long as it contains carotenoids, and may be, for example, a tomato, an apple, an apricot, or the like. Details of the method of irradiation with ultraviolet light, visible light and simultaneous irradiation are as described above with respect to the method of increasing the amount of the phenolic compound. The fruit during irradiation may be kept in an ethylene gas atmosphere, and therefore may be contained, wrapped or packaged in an ethylene gas impermeable container or wrapping material, where the transmittance of the container or wrapping material to visible light (particularly light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm) and ultraviolet light may be as described above with respect to the method for increasing the amount of a phenolic compound. During irradiation, the fruit is preferably kept at room temperature (for example, 15 to 30° C., more specifically, 20 to 30° C., and more specifically, 25 to 30° C.).

[0060] From a third viewpoint, the present disclosure provides: At least one first light source capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm; At least one second light source capable of emitting light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm; An irradiation device comprising: The present invention relates to an irradiation device (hereinafter also referred to as "first irradiation device of the present disclosure") in which the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly within 270 to 350 nm, can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. The first irradiation device of the present disclosure is useful for use in the above-mentioned method of the present disclosure. The first irradiation device of the present disclosure is also useful for promoting ripening, particularly coloring, of climacteric fruits.

[0061] The first light source is not particularly limited as long as it can emit visible light including light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. The first light source may or may not include light with a wavelength exceeding 500 nm. In a specific embodiment, the first light source can emit light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. In a more specific embodiment, the first light source can emit light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 435 to 445 nm. The first light source may be a white light source or a blue light source that is generally used for plant growth or cultivation, such as an LED, an LD, and a xenon lamp, a fluorescent lamp, an incandescent lamp, or a mercury lamp having an optical filter. The optical filter may be an optical filter whose transmittance for light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm is greater than that for light in a wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm.

[0062] The second light source is not particularly limited as long as it can emit light including light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm. In a specific embodiment, the second light source can emit light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm. In a specific embodiment, the second light source can emit light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm.

[0063] The second light source can be pulsed. By pulsed lighting, even if the irradiance during lighting is the same as during continuous lighting, the average value of the irradiance within the pulse period can be reduced according to the duty ratio. For example, by setting the duty ratio to 10%, the average value of the irradiance can be reduced to 1 / 10, and by setting it to 1%, it can be reduced to 1 / 100. In a specific embodiment, the second light source has a duty cycle of 0.1% to 20% and a 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 The duty ratio is 1% to 10%, and the pulse frequency is 1.0×10 -3 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 1.0×10 2 Hz or less. Examples of the second light source include LED, LD, and xenon lamps, fluorescent lamps, incandescent lamps, metal halide lamps, and high-pressure mercury lamps having optical filters. The optical filter may have a transmittance for light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, greater than the transmittance for light in a wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm.

[0064] As the first and / or second light source, LED or LD is particularly preferred. The use of LED or LD is also preferred from the viewpoint of energy efficiency and economy due to its energy intensiveness, low heat generation, low power consumption and long life. In addition, it is easy to control or manage the illuminance or irradiation amount. An LED or LD suitable as the first light source is, for example, an LED or LD that can emit light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 400 to 500 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, more specifically, light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 440±40 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, and more specifically, light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 440±35 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm. An LED or LD suitable as the second light source is, for example, an LED or LD that can emit one, two, or three of light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 280±5 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 310±7 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, and light having a wavelength spectrum with a main peak wavelength of 330±5 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm. The LDs or LEDs may be provided in the form of an array, a matrix or a cluster. The number of the first light sources and the number of the second light sources in the first irradiation device of the present disclosure may be the same or different. In a specific embodiment, the number of the first light sources is greater than the number of the second light sources.

[0065] The irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from the first irradiation device of the present disclosure can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less, more specifically 1 / 200 or less, more specifically 1 / 300 or less, more specifically 1 / 400 or less, more specifically 1 / 500 or less, more specifically 1 / 1000 or less, more specifically 1 / 2000 or less, more specifically 1 / 2500 or less, more specifically 1 / 5000 or less, and more specifically 1 / 10000 or less of the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device. The irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from the first irradiation device of the present disclosure may be, for example, 1 / 100,000 or more, more specifically 1 / 50,000 or more, more specifically 1 / 20,000 or more, and more specifically 1 / 10,000 or more of the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device.

[0066] In a specific embodiment, when the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from a first irradiation device of the present disclosure is 1 / 100 of the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from the irradiation device is 0.7 or more. In another specific embodiment, when the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from a first irradiation device of the present disclosure is 1 / 1000 of the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from the irradiation device is 0.6 or more. In another specific embodiment, when the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from a first irradiation device of the present disclosure is 1 / 10,000 of the irradiance of light within a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light within a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, emitted from the irradiation device is 0.5 or more. Here, the illuminance uniformity can be calculated as the "minimum illuminance / maximum illuminance" or "minimum illuminance / average illuminance" of the light in the target wavelength range in the area where the light in the target wavelength range is irradiated. For example, the illuminance uniformity is calculated by placing a 30 x 30 cm measurement surface 100 cm from the light-emitting surface of the irradiation device, with the center of the irradiation device directly above the center of the measurement surface and the light-emitting surface parallel to the measurement surface, and using the illuminance measured at 49 measurement points spaced 5 cm apart vertically and horizontally on the measurement surface.

[0067] In a specific embodiment, the first irradiation device of the present disclosure has a photon flux density of 1.0×10 in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, at a predetermined distance from the irradiation device. -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and less than 350 nm, particularly 270 nm or more and less than 350 nm, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm or more and less than 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less. The predetermined distance can be, for example, 1 to 1000 cm, more specifically 1 to 500 cm, more specifically 10 to 500 cm, more specifically 10 to 300 cm, more specifically 10 to 300 cm, more specifically 10 to 200 cm, more specifically 20 to 200 cm, more specifically 20 to 100 cm, and more specifically 30 to 100 cm. In this particular embodiment, the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10-1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm can be 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s, and may be less than 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically, 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 5.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less.

[0068] The first irradiation device of the present disclosure may be installed in a closed space and / or a substantially closed space for cultivating and / or storing a plant. The closed space and / or the substantially closed space is not limited in shape or size as long as it is possible to cultivate and / or store a plant, and may be, for example, a plant cultivation facility including a greenhouse, an artificial light type or a sunlight type plant factory, a warehouse, a storage or storage including a refrigerator (room), a showcase, a transport container, a luggage compartment of a truck, etc. In the closed space and / or the substantially closed space, the first irradiation device of the present disclosure may be disposed above and / or to the side and / or below the plant. It is preferable that the light irradiation surface of the first irradiation device faces downward. This is because it is possible to suppress adhesion of light blocking materials such as dust to the light irradiation surface and stabilize the light output. The light irradiation to the plant may be performed by directing the irradiation surface of the first irradiation device to the direction in which the plant is present and directly irradiating the plant with light, or by directing the irradiation surface of the first irradiation device to the direction in which no plant is present and irradiating the plant with reflected light. For example, light may be irradiated onto a light reflecting sheet provided around the ground or a part of a plant to be irradiated, and the light reflected by the light reflecting sheet may be irradiated onto the plant. In light irradiated from the same irradiating device, the light reflected by the light reflecting sheet can have a longer optical path than light that is directly irradiated, so light with good uniformity can be irradiated. An air conditioner that controls the internal temperature and / or humidity to a predetermined value may be installed in the closed space and / or substantially closed space. When the first irradiating device of the present disclosure is not irradiating light, the closed space and / or substantially closed space is kept in a dark place (for example, a photon flux density of <1.0×10 in a wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm). -3 μmol / m 2 / s, photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 700 nm is ≦10 μmol / m 2 / s).

[0069] Ultraviolet light (UV), alone or in combination with light in other wavelength ranges (e.g., visible light range), can produce useful effects in animals and plants, but high doses can also cause harmful effects in animals and plants. The irradiance of UV required to produce a useful effect is preferably at least two orders of magnitude lower (i.e., 1 / 100 or less) than the irradiance of light in other wavelength ranges (e.g., visible light range) to be combined. To accurately control the amount of UV irradiation, it is preferable to use a UV-LED. However, when an LED is turned on with a current less than 1 / 10 of the rated current, the illuminance can become unstable. Simply reducing the number of UV-LEDs makes it difficult to achieve uniformity of UV light in the composite light. Thus, a need exists for an illumination device that can illuminate light in two or more different wavelength ranges at different irradiances.

[0070] Therefore, from a fourth viewpoint, the present disclosure provides: At least one first' light source capable of emitting light within a first wavelength range; at least one second' light source capable of emitting light in a second wavelength range different from the first wavelength range; An irradiation device comprising: The present invention relates to an irradiation device (hereinafter also referred to as the "second irradiation device of the present disclosure") in which the irradiance of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light in the first wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device. Hereinafter, the "first irradiation device of the present disclosure" and the "second irradiation device of the present disclosure" may be collectively referred to as the "irradiation device of the present disclosure." The second irradiation device of the present disclosure is useful for use in the above-mentioned method of the present disclosure. The first irradiation device of the present disclosure is also useful for promoting ripening, particularly coloring, of climacteric fruits. It can also be used as a surface light source device or a line light source device that emits two or more types of light with significantly different irradiances, more specifically, a ratio of irradiances of 1 / 100 or less.

[0071] The first' light source and the second' light source are not particularly limited as long as the wavelength ranges of the light that can be emitted (i.e., the first and second wavelength ranges) are different. The first wavelength range may be, for example, the visible light range, more specifically, the wavelength range of 400 to 700 nm. The second wavelength range may be, for example, the ultraviolet light range, more specifically, the UV-A (400 to 315 nm) and / or UV-B (315 to 280 nm) and / or UV-C range (280 to 100 nm). Suitable examples of the first' light source and the second' light source include LEDs and LDs. The LDs or LEDs may be provided in the form of an array, a matrix or a cluster. It is preferable that the first' and second' light sources, particularly the second' light source, are capable of pulse lighting. The duty ratio of the pulsed light can be, for example, 1% to 99%, more specifically 1% to 75%, more specifically 1% to 50%, more specifically 1% to 40%, more specifically 1% to 30%, more specifically 1% to 25%, more specifically 1% to 20%, more specifically 1% to 15%, and more specifically 1% to 10%. The pulse period can be, for example, 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 1.0×10 4 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -3 Hz or higher 1.0×10 4 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 1.0×10 4 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 1.0×10 3 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 5.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 2.0×10 2 Hz or less, more specifically 1.0×10 -2 Hz or higher 1.0×10 2 Hz or less.

[0072] In certain embodiments, the second irradiation device of the present disclosure comprises: a rod-shaped light guide having a plurality of first light incident surfaces formed along a longitudinal direction, a second light incident surface formed on one or both end surfaces in the longitudinal direction, a light exit surface that exits light incident from the first and second light incident surfaces, and a first light reflecting surface that is provided along the longitudinal direction and that can reflect the incident light toward the light exit surface; a first' light source arranged to input light within a first wavelength range into the light guide from the first light input surface; a second' light source arranged to emit light in a second wavelength range into the light guide from the second light incident surface; has.

[0073] The light guide is composed of a material that is transparent to light in a first wavelength range and light in a second wavelength range. In this specification, "transparent" with respect to light in a specific wavelength range means transmitting 50% or more, more specifically 60% or more, more specifically 70% or more, and even more specifically 80% or more of the light in that wavelength range. The light guide may be in the form of a plate or a rod having a circular or rectangular cross section in the short direction. The light guide has a plurality of first light incident surfaces formed along the longitudinal direction. A first' light source is disposed opposite each of the first light incident surfaces, preferably with its light emitting surface facing the first light incident surface. The light guide has a light exit surface that exits light incident from the first and second light entrance surfaces. The light exit surface is preferably located opposite the first light entrance surface. When the light guide has a rectangular or substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, the first light entrance surface and the light exit surface are preferably formed on side surfaces located opposite each other. A second light incident surface is formed on one or both end faces in the longitudinal direction of the light guide. Preferably, the light guide has second light incident surfaces on both end faces in the longitudinal direction. The light guide includes a first light reflecting surface arranged along the longitudinal direction and capable of reflecting incident light toward the light exit surface. The first light reflecting surface may be configured to reflect at least a portion of the light incident from the first and / or second light entrance surface toward the light exit surface within the light guide. The light may be reflected one or more times by another reflecting material on the optical path from the light entrance surface to the first light reflecting surface. The first light reflecting surface is preferably configured as a total reflection surface for light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range.

[0074] A plurality of first light reflecting surfaces may be provided along the longitudinal direction of the light guide, and may be provided on both sides of the plurality of first light incident surfaces. The first light reflecting surface may be a lens cut surface obtained by cutting the light guide in the short direction from the first light incident surface to the light exit surface, and is preferably a prism cut or approximately prism cut (a slit having a triangular, approximately triangular, semicircular or approximately semicircular cross section). Air or a substance having an absolute refractive index lower than that of the material constituting the light guide with respect to the light from the first' light source or the light from the first' light source and the light from the second' light source may be present in the slit. The light guide may be covered with a reflector, preferably on a surface or part other than the surface or part on which the first and second light incident surfaces are formed and the surface or part on which the light exit surface is formed. When the light guide is rectangular or plate-shaped, preferably, the side surfaces other than the side surface having the first and second light incident surfaces and the side surface having the light exit surface may be covered with a reflector.

[0075] Light from a first' light source is incident on the first light incident surface of the light guide. A portion of the light that enters the light guide from the first light incident surface travels straight and exits from the light exit surface. A portion of the light from the first' light source that enters the light guide is reflected by the first light reflecting surface toward the light exit surface. A portion of the light from the first' light source that enters the light guide is reflected by the reflecting material that covers the side surface of the light guide, and a portion of this light travels toward the light exit surface. Light from a second' light source is incident on the second light incident surface of the light guide. A portion of the light that enters the light guide from the second light incident surface is totally reflected by the light exit surface, travels through the light guide, is reflected by the prism cut surface, and exits from the light exit surface. A portion of the incident light from the second' light source is reflected by the first light reflecting surface toward the light exit surface. A portion of the incident light from the second' light source is reflected by the reflecting material that covers the side surface of the light guide, and a portion of this light is directed toward the light exit surface. By reflecting the light from the second' light source on the prism cut surface instead of directly exiting from the light exit surface and expanding the range of light exiting from the light exit surface, uniform illumination at low illuminance is possible.

[0076] In a specific embodiment, the second irradiation device of the present disclosure further includes a parabolic reflector having a reflecting surface that reflects the light emitted from the second' light source toward the second light incident surface. The parabolic reflector is provided on one or both sides of the end face in the longitudinal direction of the light guide. Preferably, one arc surface of the parabolic reflector is provided in contact with the end face of the light guide. The reflecting surface of the parabolic reflector is preferably configured as a total reflection surface for light in the second wavelength range. When the parabolic reflector is an ellipsoidal reflector, the reflecting surface of the ellipsoidal reflector may be a part of a spheroid of revolution with a first focal point located outside the light guide and a second focal point located inside the light guide. This allows the light emitted from the second' light source to efficiently enter the light guide from the second light incident surface. Preferably, the major axis of the spheroid of revolution is parallel to the major axis of the light guide, and the minor axis of the spheroid of revolution is parallel to the minor axis of the light guide.

[0077] The irradiance of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the second irradiation device of the present disclosure can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less, more specifically 1 / 200 or less, more specifically 1 / 300 or less, more specifically 1 / 400 or less, more specifically 1 / 500 or less, more specifically 1 / 1000 or less, more specifically 1 / 2000 or less, more specifically 1 / 2500 or less, more specifically 1 / 5000 or less, more specifically 1 / 10000 or less of the irradiance of the light in the first wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device. The irradiance of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the second irradiation device of the present disclosure can be, for example, 1 / 100000 or more, more specifically 1 / 50000 or more, more specifically 1 / 20000 or more, more specifically 1 / 10000 or more of the irradiance of the light in the first wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device.

[0078] In a specific embodiment, when the irradiance of light in the second wavelength range emitted from a second irradiation device of the present disclosure is 1 / 100 of the irradiance of light in the first wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device is 0.7 or greater. In another specific embodiment, when the irradiance of light in the second wavelength range emitted from a second irradiation device of the present disclosure is 1 / 1000 of the irradiance of light in the first wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device is 0.6 or more. In another specific embodiment, when the irradiance of light in the second wavelength range emitted from a second irradiation device of the present disclosure is 1 / 10000 of the irradiance of light in the first wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the irradiation device is 0.5 or more.

[0079] The irradiation device of the present disclosure may include an irradiation control unit that controls the irradiance and / or the timing of turning on and off the first or first' light source and the second or second' light source. The irradiation control unit may control whether the first or first' light source and the second or second' light source emit continuous light or intermittent light (particularly pulsed light), or a combination thereof. When the irradiation device of the present disclosure can emit intermittent light (particularly pulsed light), the irradiation control unit may control the duty ratio and / or pulse frequency (or pulse period) of the intermittent light. Such an irradiation control unit may be, for example, a pulse width modulation circuit, or a pulse width modulation circuit and a timer, and may be composed of, for example, a microcomputer, a relay, and / or a switching element. The illumination control unit may be configured to designate which of the multiple light sources included in the illumination device of the present disclosure should emit light based on information from a sensor (see below).

[0080] In certain embodiments, the illumination device of the present disclosure further comprises an illumination control unit that controls the first or first' light source and / or the second or second' light source based on an input signal from the sensor. The sensor may be an illuminance sensor or an image sensor. The input signal may therefore be a signal relating to illuminance information at or near the object, or color information of the object and, if necessary, position information associated with the color information. Nearby refers to within 15 mm of the irradiated surface. The illuminance sensor may be, for example, a photon sensor. The photon sensor may measure the photon flux density of light irradiated to the sensor. The photon flux density to be measured may be a photon flux density within a specific wavelength range. The specific wavelength range may be a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm and / or 400 to 500 nm, and further a wavelength range of 280 to 320 nm and / or 200 to 265 nm, as required, for the first irradiation device of the present disclosure, and may be a first wavelength range and / or a second wavelength range for the second irradiation device of the present disclosure. The image sensor may be, for example, a photodiode, a photomultiplier tube, a CCD sensor, a CMOS sensor, etc. When a two-dimensional color sensor, more specifically a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor, is used, position information associated with the color information can be obtained along with the color information. The image sensor can obtain color information (e.g., RGB values ​​and / or Lab values) of the subject and, optionally, the associated position information. In a specific embodiment, the image sensor is an imaging device provided in an automatic fruit harvesting system that individually determines and picks fruits to be harvested based on morphological information including color information. In another specific embodiment, the image sensor is an imaging device provided in an automatic plant sorting system that sorts plants based on morphological information including color information. In any embodiment, the imaging device is configured to be able to transmit color information (e.g., coloring degree information, more specifically, average coloring degree or colored area rate) obtained from the captured image data to an irradiation control unit provided in the irradiation device of the present disclosure, and the irradiation control unit is configured to be able to specify a light source to be emitted in the irradiation device based on the received information, and emit light at an irradiance and irradiation time according to the received information. The illumination control unit can control the irradiance and / or the timing of turning on and off the first or first' light source and / or the second or second' light source based on an input signal from the sensor, for example by comparing the input value with a reference value, and / or can specify the light source to emit light.

[0081] In a specific embodiment, the first irradiation device of the present disclosure further includes an irradiation control unit that controls the timing of turning on and / or turning off the second light source based on an input signal related to the illuminance in at least a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. Here, the irradiation control unit may control the second light source to be turned on when the illuminance or photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm becomes equal to or greater than a predetermined amount, and / or control the second light source to be able to be turned on while the illuminance or photon flux density is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, and / or control the second light source to be unable to be turned on while the illuminance or photon flux density is below the predetermined amount, and / or control the second light source to be turned off when the illuminance or photon flux density falls below the predetermined amount. The predetermined amount may be what is described above as the "second predetermined amount." In this specific embodiment, the irradiation control unit may also control the timing of turning on and / or off the second light source based on an input signal related to the illuminance in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm. In this case, the irradiation control unit may control the second light source to be turned on when the illuminance or photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, falls below a predetermined amount, and / or control the second light source to be able to be turned on while the illuminance or photon flux density is below the predetermined amount, and / or control the second light source to be unable to be turned on while the illuminance or photon flux density is above the predetermined amount, and / or control the second light source to be turned off when the illuminance or photon flux density is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount. The predetermined amount may be what is described above as the "first predetermined amount." In another specific embodiment, the first illumination device of the present disclosure further includes an illumination control unit that controls the second light source so that it can be turned on while the first light source is turned on, and / or controls the second light source so that it cannot be turned on while the first light source is turned off. The illumination device of the present disclosure can be used, for example, as a light source for plant growth, a light source for fruit ripening, or a light source for human or animal medical treatment.

[0082] Hereinafter, the irradiation device of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, which are schematic diagrams showing specific embodiments of the irradiation device of the present disclosure. (Embodiment 1) One specific embodiment of the first irradiation device of the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 1. The irradiation device 100 includes at least one first LED light source 112 capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and at least one second LED light source 114 capable of emitting light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, and may include, as an optional component, a controller 118 for controlling the lighting state of the first LED light source and / or the second LED light source. The irradiance of the light emitted from this irradiation device in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. The poorly colored plant P to be irradiated may be wrapped in a wrapping material having a transmittance of 50% or more for light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and a transmittance of 10% or more for the ultraviolet light. The wrapping material may be MA (Modified Atmosphere) wrapping. In particular, in the case of post-harvest plants, the use of P-Plus (registered trademark) manufactured by Sumitomo Bakelite Co., Ltd. makes it possible to maintain the freshness of fruits and vegetables during coloring. In FIG. 1, the irradiation device 100 is positioned so as to irradiate the irradiated plant P only from above, but it may be positioned so as to be able to irradiate from the side and / or below in addition to or instead of from above. In addition, although the number of first LED light sources 112 and the number of second LED light sources 114 are shown to be the same in FIG. 1, the numbers of the two may be different. The controller 118 controls the on / off and / or irradiance of the first and second LED light sources. The controller 118 may collectively control the multiple LED light sources included in the irradiation device 100, or may control them individually. The controller 118 may cause the second light source to emit light continuously or intermittently (more specifically, as a pulsed light). The controller 118 may also control each light source such that the second LED light source 114 can be turned on while the first LED light source 112 is turned on, and / or the second light source 114 cannot be turned on while the first LED light source 112 is turned off. Furthermore, the irradiation device 100 may be flexible. By having flexibility, the positions of the first LED light source 112 and the second LED light source 114 can be adjusted according to the shape of the plant, and the distance between the plant and the first LED light source 112 and the second LED light source 114 can be kept constant. Furthermore, the plants may be stored at low temperature or in a controlled atmosphere (CA) during irradiation in order to prevent deterioration of freshness.

[0083] Another specific embodiment of the first irradiation device of the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 2. The irradiation device 200 includes at least one first LED light source 212 capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm, at least one second LED light source 214 capable of emitting light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, a controller 218 for controlling the lighting state of the first LED light source 212 and / or the second LED light source 214, and an imaging device 224 such as a CCD camera or a CMOS camera. The irradiation device 200 may include a lens system (not shown), in which case the controller 218 may control the lens system. The irradiance of the light emitted from this irradiation device in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. The irradiated plant P may be wrapped in a wrapping material having a transmittance of 50% or more for light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and a transmittance of 10% or more for the ultraviolet light.

[0084] The plant P to be irradiated is transported from the sensing area of ​​the imaging device 224 to the irradiation area of ​​the irradiation device 200 by a transport device such as a belt conveyor. In the sensing area, the plant P to be irradiated is imaged by the imaging device 224. The imaging device 224 transmits to the controller 218 color information of the plant P obtained from the image data and position information associated with the color information. The plant P is then transported to the irradiation area of ​​the irradiation device 200. In the illumination area, the illumination target plant P is simultaneously illuminated with the light of the first and second LED light sources from the illumination device 200. The controller 218 controls the on / off and / or irradiance of the first and second LED light sources included in the illumination device 200. More specifically, the controller 218 designates the first and second LED light sources in the illumination device 200 to emit light based on the position information received from the imaging device 224, and causes them to emit light at the required irradiance based on the received color information. The controller 218 may cause the second light source to emit light continuously or intermittently (more specifically, as pulsed light). The controller 218 may also control each light source so that the second LED light source 214 can be turned on while the first LED light source 212 is turned on, and / or the second light source 214 cannot be turned on while the first LED light source 212 is turned off. In addition, although the number of the first LED light sources 212 and the number of the second LED light sources 214 are shown to be the same in FIG. 2, the numbers of the two may be different.

[0085] Another specific embodiment of the first irradiation device of the present disclosure is shown in Fig. 3. The irradiation device 300 includes at least one first LED light source 312 capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm, at least one second LED light source 314 capable of emitting light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, a controller 318 for controlling the lighting state of the first LED light source 312 and / or the second LED light source 314, and a photon sensor 324. The irradiance of the light emitted from this irradiation device in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm. This irradiation device is provided to irradiate the plant P cultivated in the solar powered plant factory 330. In Fig. 3, the solar powered plant factory 330 is shown as having a part of the roof that is transparent to sunlight, but the entire roof may be transparent to sunlight, and some or all of the side walls may also be transparent to sunlight.

[0086] The photon sensor 324 measures the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm and 400 to 500 nm, on or near the surface of the irradiated plant P. Nearby refers to within 15 mm from the irradiated surface. The controller 318 receives data on the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265-350 nm, particularly 270-350 nm and / or 400-500 nm, from the photon sensor 324. Based on the result of comparing the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265-350 nm, particularly 270-350 nm and 400-500 nm, with a predetermined value, the controller 318 designates the first LED light source and / or the second LED light source to emit light at the required irradiance. More specifically, when the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, is lower than the predetermined value (for example, on cloudy or rainy days and immediately before sunset to immediately after sunrise), the controller 318 causes the second LED light source to emit light so as to achieve a photon flux density equivalent to the difference (measured value-predetermined value). Alternatively or simultaneously, when the measured value of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm is lower than the predetermined value (for example, immediately before sunset to immediately after sunrise), the controller 318 controls the first LED light source to emit light so as to achieve a photon flux density equivalent to the difference. Alternatively or simultaneously, the controller 318 controls the second LED light source 314 to be turned on when the measured value of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined value, and / or to be able to turn on the second LED light source 314 while the photon flux density is equal to or higher than the predetermined amount, and / or to be unable to turn on the second LED light source 314 while the photon flux density is below the predetermined amount, and / or to be able to turn off the second LED light source 314 when the photon flux density falls below the predetermined amount. In addition, although the number of first LED light sources 312 and the number of second LED light sources 314 are shown to be the same in FIG. 3, the numbers of the two may be different. The present irradiation device 300 may include an imaging device (not shown) above and / or to the side of the plant P. The imaging device may be fixed or may be movable above and / or to the side of the plant P. The imaging device can transmit coloration information (e.g., average coloration or colored area ratio) for each predetermined section of the field in the factory, obtained from the captured image data, to the controller 318. Based on the coloration information received from the imaging device, the controller 318 designates the first and second LED light sources to be emitted in the irradiation device 300 corresponding to the section to be irradiated, and causes them to emit light at an irradiance and irradiation time according to the coloration information. Although the present illumination device is illustrated for illuminating plants grown in a sunlight-based plant factory, it is also applicable for illuminating plants grown in an artificial light-based plant factory.

[0087] 4 shows a specific embodiment of the second illumination device of the present disclosure. The illumination device 400 includes a first LED light source 412, a second LED light source 414 that emits light having a different wavelength from the light emitted from the first LED light source, a light guide 440, and a spheroidal reflector 460. The light guide 440 includes a light guide having a plurality of first light incident surfaces 442 formed along the longitudinal direction, second light incident surfaces 444 formed on both end surfaces in the longitudinal direction, a light exit surface 446 that exits light incident from the first light incident surface 442 and the second light incident surface 444, and prism cut surfaces 448 that are provided on both sides of the first light incident surface along the longitudinal direction and can reflect the incident light toward the light exit surface 446. The first' light source 412 is disposed such that a light emitting surface 452 of the first' light source faces the first light incident surface 442 so that the light emitted from the first' light source enters the light guide 440 from the first light incident surface 442. The ellipsoidal reflector 460 reflects the light emitted from the second' light source 414 toward the second light incident surface 444 of the light guide 440 at the reflecting surface. The reflecting surface is made of a part of an ellipsoid of revolution with a first focal point located on the light emitting surface 454 of the second' light source 414 and a second focal point located inside the light guide 440. This allows the light emitted from the second' light source to efficiently enter the light guide 440 from the second light incident surface 444.

[0088] In the present irradiation device 400, the light emitted from the light emitting surface 452 of the first' light source 412 enters the inside of the light guide from the first light incident surface 444 of the light guide 440. A part of the incident light from the first' light source may be directly emitted from the light exit surface 446 of the light guide. A part of the incident light from the first' light source may be reflected by the first light reflecting surface toward the light exit surface 446 and may be emitted from the light exit surface 446. A part of the incident light from the first' light source may be reflected by a reflecting material (not shown) covering the side surface of the light guide toward the light exit surface and may be emitted from the light exit surface 446. A part of the incident light from the first' light source may be reflected by the first light reflecting surface and / or the reflecting material two or more times in total and may be emitted from the light exit surface 446. In this way, the light from the multiple first' light sources 412 included in the present irradiation device 400 is efficiently emitted through a relatively short optical path from the light emitting surface 446 of the light guide 440. Therefore, the present irradiation device 400 can emit light in the first wavelength range with relatively high irradiance.

[0089] In the present irradiation device 400, a part of the light emitted from the second' light source 414 directly enters the inside of the light guide from the second light incident surface 444 of the light guide 440. A part of the light emitted from the second' light source 414 is reflected by the reflecting surface of the ellipsoidal reflector 460 toward the second light incident surface 444 of the light guide 440, and enters the inside of the light guide from the second light incident surface. A part of the light emitted from the second' light source 414 is reflected two or more times by the reflecting surface of the ellipsoidal reflector 460, and enters the inside of the light guide from the second light incident surface. A portion of the light from the second' light source 414 that enters the light guide from the second light entrance surface may be totally reflected by the light exit surface 446, propagate through the light guide, and be reflected by the prism cut surface 448 to exit from the light exit surface 446. A portion of the light from the second' light source that enters the light guide may be reflected by the first light reflecting surface toward the light exit surface and exit from the light exit surface 446. A portion of the light from the second' light source that enters the light guide may be reflected by the reflecting material that covers the side surface of the light guide toward the light exit surface 446 and exit from the light exit surface 446. A portion of the light from the second' light source that enters the light guide may be reflected by the second light reflecting surface and / or the reflecting material two or more times in total to exit from the light exit surface 446. In this manner, the light from the two second' light sources 414 included in the present irradiation device 400 is efficiently (through a relatively long optical path) emitted from the light emitting surface 446 of the light guide 440. Therefore, the present irradiation device 400 can emit light in the second wavelength range at a relatively low irradiance.

[0090] The second irradiation device of the present disclosure can irradiate light in the first and second wavelength ranges with significantly different irradiances (e.g., the irradiance of the light in the second wavelength range is 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light in the first wavelength range). The light reflective surface of the light guide is preferably configured as a total reflection surface for light in the first wavelength range and light in the second wavelength range, and the reflector is preferably configured as a total reflection surface for light in the second wavelength range. 4, the prism cut surfaces 448 are provided on both sides of the first light incident surface, but may be provided on only one side. Also, the second light incident surface 444 and the spheroid reflector 460 are provided on both sides of the end surfaces in the longitudinal direction of the light guide 440, but may be provided on only one end surface.

[0091] The present disclosure includes specific embodiments described in the following sections.

[0092] Section 1: To the plants, The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10-3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light A method for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in a plant, comprising simultaneously irradiating the above two substances for 12 hours or more.

[0093] Section 2: For plants, The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm; Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light A method for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in a plant, comprising simultaneously irradiating the above two substances for 12 hours or more.

[0094] Section 3: The ultraviolet light It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, and has a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 3. The method according to item 1 or 2, wherein the .lambda. / s or less.

[0095] Section 4: The ultraviolet light It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, and has a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or less, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 × 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m2 4. The method according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the ratio of a stoichiometric ratio to a stoichiometric ratio is 1 to 1 / s or less.

[0096] Section 5: The ultraviolet light Light having a wavelength spectrum with a peak wavelength of 280±5 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, or Light having a wavelength spectrum with a peak wavelength of 310±7 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, or Light with a peak wavelength of 330±5 nm and a wavelength spectrum with a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm The method according to any one of items 1 to 4, comprising:

[0097] Item 6: The visible light has a photon flux density of 50 to 300 μmol / m 2 6. The method according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein

[0098] Section 7: Item 7. The method according to any one of Items 1 to 6, wherein the plant does not contain a predetermined amount of phenolic compounds or is a plant with poor coloring.

[0099] Section 8: the plant is a cultivated plant, The method further comprises measuring a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, and a photon flux density in a wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm on or near the surface of the plant; When a first difference, which is a difference between a first predetermined amount of photon flux density in a wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, and the measured photon flux density on or near the surface of the plant in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, particularly 270 nm to 350 nm, is greater than 0, the plant is irradiated with the ultraviolet light at a photon flux density corresponding to the first difference, 8. The method according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the visible light is irradiated to the plant at a photon flux density corresponding to a second difference between a second predetermined amount of photon flux density in a wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less and the measured photon flux density in a wavelength range of 400 nm or more and 500 nm or less on the surface of the plant or in its vicinity when a second difference is greater than 0.

[0100] Section 9: the plant is a harvested plant, Item 8. The method according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the coloring degree of the surface of the plant is calculated, and the ultraviolet light and the visible light are irradiated onto the plant when the value of the coloring degree is lower than a predetermined value based on the coloring degree.

[0101] Section 10: Item 10. The method according to item 9, wherein the harvested plant is packaged in a packaging material, and the packaging material has a transmittance of 50% or more for light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and a transmittance of 10% or more for the ultraviolet light.

[0102] Section 11: Item 11. The method according to any one of Items 1 to 10, wherein the phenolic compound is an anthocyanin.

[0103] Section 12: 12. The method according to any one of items 1 to 11, wherein the ultraviolet light is pulsed light and the visible light is continuous light.

[0104] Section 13: To the plants, The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm, especially 270 nm to 350 nm, is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm or more and 350 nm or less, particularly 270 nm or more and 350 nm or less; and Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and simultaneously irradiating the plant with at least one of these for 12 hours or more.

[0105] Section 14: At least one first light source capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm; At least one second light source capable of emitting light in a wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm; An irradiation device comprising: The irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm.

[0106] Section 15: Item 15. The irradiation device according to item 14, wherein when the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, is 1 / 100 of the irradiance of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm, the irradiance uniformity of the light emitted from the irradiation device within the wavelength range of 265 to 350 nm, particularly 270 to 350 nm, is 0.7 or more.

[0107] Section 16: Item 16. The irradiation device according to item 14 or 15, wherein the second light source can emit light having a main peak wavelength in a wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in a wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, or light having a main peak wavelength in a wavelength range of 270 to 295 nm, particularly in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, light having a main peak wavelength in a wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in a wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm.

[0108] Section 17: The second light source has a duty ratio of 1% to 10% and a light output of 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 17. The irradiation device according to any one of items 14 to 16, which performs pulse lighting at a cycle of 100 Hz or less.

[0109] Section 18: At least one first' light source capable of emitting light within a first wavelength range; and at least one second' light source capable of emitting light in a second wavelength range different from the first wavelength range, an illumination device, wherein the irradiance of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the illumination device can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light in the second wavelength range emitted from the illumination device.

[0110] Section 19: a rod-shaped light guide having a plurality of first light incident surfaces formed along a longitudinal direction, a second light incident surface formed on one or both end surfaces in the longitudinal direction, a light exit surface that emits light incident from the first and second light incident surfaces, and light reflecting surfaces provided on both sides of the first light incident surface along the longitudinal direction and that reflect the light incident from the first light incident surface toward the light exit surface; a first' light source arranged to input light within a first wavelength range into the light guide from the first light input surface; Item 19. The irradiation device according to any one of items 14 to 18, further comprising: a second' light source arranged to emit light within a second wavelength range into the light guide from the second light incident surface.

[0111] Section 20: 20. The irradiation device according to item 19, wherein the light reflecting surface is a cut surface of a prism cut formed on the light guide.

[0112] Section 21: Item 21. The illumination device according to item 19 or 20, further comprising an elliptical reflector that reflects the light emitted from the second light source toward the second light incident surface.

[0113] Section 22: 22. The illumination device according to any one of items 19 to 21, wherein the light guide has side surfaces covered with a reflector except for a side surface having the first and second light incident surfaces and a side surface having the light exit surface.

[0114] Section 23: 23. The illumination device according to claim 14, further comprising an illumination control unit that controls the first or first' light source and / or the second or second' light source based on an input signal from a sensor.

[0115] It should be noted that the above embodiments are described as examples to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific configurations and arrangements described in the present specification or the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand and readily recognize that the specific configurations, means, methods, and devices described herein can be replaced with many others known in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. It should also be noted that aspects of the present invention described with respect to one embodiment may be incorporated in different embodiments even if not specifically described as such. That is, all embodiments and / or all features of any embodiment may be combined in any manner and / or combination. EXAMPLES

[0116] (Experiment 1) Leaf disks with an inner diameter of 15 mm were prepared from the uncolored parts of the leaves of red leaf lettuce (also known as "sunny lettuce") harvested approximately two months after sowing, using a cork borer. In each petri dish (inner diameter 9 cm), 15 leaf disks were placed on wet absorbent cotton and irradiated with LED light in a thermostatic chamber (25°C) under the irradiation conditions shown in Table 1. The 280 nm light was irradiated by reducing the photon flux density using an ND filter. The spectra of the LEDs used in the experiment are shown in Figures 15 and 16. [Table 1]

[0117] After irradiation, the flavonol index and anthocyanin index in the leaf epidermis were measured (DUALEX Scientific+ TM , Force-A), where the flavonol index and the anthocyanin index are defined as follows: Flavonol index = log [(fluorescence intensity in the near infrared region using red excitation light) / (fluorescence intensity in the near infrared region using UV-A excitation light))] Anthocyanin index = log [(fluorescence intensity in the near infrared region using red excitation light) / (fluorescence intensity in the near infrared region using green excitation light))]

[0118] Result 1: The average values ​​of the measurements for 15 leaf discs are shown in Table 2. [Table 2]

[0119] From Table 2, 280 nm light (0.01 μmol / m 2 The increases in the flavonol index and the anthocyanin index due to exposure to blue light (100 μmol / m 2The increases in the flavonol index and anthocyanin index due to exposure to 280 nm light and blue light alone are 0.65 and 0.50, respectively. Therefore, the increases in the flavonol index and anthocyanin index due to simultaneous exposure to 280 nm light and blue light are predicted to be 0.80 and 0.55, respectively, which are the simple sums of the increases when exposed to only one light. Nevertheless, the flavonol index and anthocyanin index increased by 1.0 and 0.75, respectively, upon simultaneous irradiation with 280 nm light and blue light. From these results, it can be seen that simultaneous irradiation of a plant with 280 nm light and blue light synergistically increases the flavonol and anthocyanin contents in the plant. Since the light exposure time required for coloring can be shortened, plants can be colored while suppressing quality deterioration due to plant necrosis, mold growth, etc. Since the anthocyanin content can be increased synergistically while shortening the light exposure time, the effect can be obtained with less energy consumption. The inventors believe that this synergistic effect is due to the fact that the synthesis of phenolic compounds (e.g., phenylpropanoids), which are precursors of flavonols and anthocyanins, increased in plants by irradiation with 280 nm light (JP Patent Publication No. 2018-186802; WO 2018 / 199307), into flavonols and anthocyanins (i.e., synthesis of phenolic compounds) is promoted by irradiation with blue light.

[0120] Result 2: The same leaf disk as above was photographed (Figure 5). Images were taken before and after LED irradiation. Of the captured image data, the image area in which the plant piece was photographed was used as the analysis area, and the average intensity of R (red component) and G (green component) was obtained from that analysis area. From this value, the coloring degree (= (RG) / (R+G)) was calculated. In other words, in this evaluation method, the degree of change in the plant from green to red is defined as the coloring degree. The amount of change in coloring degree before and after irradiation is shown in Table 3 below. [Table 3]

[0121] From Table 3, 280 nm light (0.01 μmol / m 2 / s) alone and blue light (100 μmol / m 2 The increase in color intensity due to single-exposure irradiation with 280 nm light and blue light is 0.01 and 0.14, respectively. Therefore, the increase in color intensity due to simultaneous exposure to 280 nm light and blue light is predicted to be 0.15, which is the simple sum of the increases when exposed to single light. Nevertheless, simultaneous irradiation with 280 nm light and blue light increased the color intensity by 0.25. From these results, it can be seen that simultaneous irradiation with 280 nm light and blue light synergistically promotes plant coloring (i.e., an increase in the content of phenolic compounds). In particular, it can be seen that lettuce can be sufficiently colored by simultaneous irradiation with 280 nm light and blue light for two days.

[0122] (Experiment 2-1) Leaf disks with an inner diameter of 12 mm were prepared from leaves of large seedlings of red leaf lettuce harvested approximately one month after sowing. In each petri dish (inner diameter 9 cm), 15 leaf disks were placed on wet absorbent cotton and irradiated with the following LED light for 2 days in a thermostatic chamber (25°C). The UV-B LED light was irradiated by reducing the photon flux density using an ND filter as necessary. UV-B LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]): 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 Blue LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 443 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):100 Controls included no light exposure and exposure to blue LED light only. The spectra of the LEDs used in the experiment are shown in Figures 15 and 16.

[0123] Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in Figs. 6-1 to 6-5, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 4 below. [Table 4]

[0124] From the results shown in Table 4 and Figures 6-1 to 6-5, it can be seen that in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm, when combined with blue light, leaves can be colored, and light with shorter wavelengths shows a coloring effect (i.e., an increase in the amount of phenolic compounds) with a lower photon flux density. It can be seen that lettuce can be fully colored by simultaneous irradiation with light in the wavelength range of 280nm to 320nm and blue light for two days. The bold letters in the table indicate that the change in color intensity before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone.

[0125] (Experiment 2-2) For UV-B LED light with shorter wavelengths (280, 290 and 300 nm), the photon flux density was lower (0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1 μmol / m 2 Experiment 2-1 was repeated using the same 1-stimulus pair (1-stimulus pair / s). Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in Figs. 7-1 to 7-3, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 5 below. [Table 5]

[0126] From the results shown in Table 5 and Figures 7-1 to 7-3, light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 300 nm has a concentration of 0.001 μmol / m 2 It can be seen that at photon flux densities less than 100 / s, the coloring effect of the combination with blue light (i.e., the effect of increasing the amount of phenolic compounds) decreases. The bold letters in the table indicate cases in which the change in color intensity before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone.

[0127] (Experiment 3) Experiment 2-1 was repeated using leaf disks with an inner diameter of 12 mm prepared from the unpigmented parts of red leaf lettuce leaves harvested approximately 2 months after sowing. Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in Figs. 8-1 to 8-5, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 6 below. [Table 6]

[0128] From the results shown in Table 6 and Figures 8-1 to 8-5, it can be seen that light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm can color the leaves of red leaf lettuce at harvest time, as with large seedlings, when combined with blue light, and that light with shorter wavelengths shows a coloring effect (i.e., an increase in the amount of phenolic compounds) with a lower photon flux density. The bold letters in the table indicate cases where the change in color intensity before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone.

[0129] (Experiment 4) After harvesting, the cherries were placed on top of moistened absorbent cotton in a petri dish (inner diameter 9 cm) and irradiated with the following UV-B LED light and blue LED light simultaneously for three days in a thermostatic chamber (15°C). The UV-B LED light was irradiated by reducing the photon flux density using an ND filter as necessary. UV-B LED light 1 Peak wavelength [nm]: 280, 290 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]): 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1 UV-B LED light 2 Peak wavelength [nm]: 300, 310, 320 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]): 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 Blue LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 443 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):100 Controls included no light exposure and exposure to blue LED light only. The spectra of the LEDs used in the experiment are shown in Figures 15 and 16.

[0130] Photographs of the cherries after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in Figs. 9-1 to 9-5, and the change in coloring degree before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 7 below. [Table 7]

[0131] From the results shown in Table 7 and Figures 9-1 to 9-5, it can be seen that light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm can color cherries when combined with blue light, and that light with shorter wavelengths shows a coloring effect (i.e., an increase in the amount of phenolic compounds) with a lower photon flux density. The bold letters in the table indicate cases where the change in coloring degree before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone.

[0132] (Experiment 5) Experiment 4 was repeated on harvested grapes. Photographs of the grapes after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in Figures 10-1 to 10-5, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 8 below. [Table 8]

[0133] From the results shown in Table 8 and Figures 10-1 to 10-5, it can be seen that light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm can color grapes when combined with blue light, and light with a shorter wavelength shows a coloring effect (i.e., an increase in the amount of phenolic compounds) with a lower photon flux density. The bold letters in the table indicate that the change in coloring degree before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone. As shown in experiments 2 to 5, the optimal irradiation conditions for coloring vary depending on the plant species, so when actually processing a large number of plants with poor coloring, it is effective to conduct advance tests on a small number of samples to determine the optimal UV-B LED wavelength, illuminance, and irradiation time, and then process them under the most efficient conditions.

[0134] (Experiment 6) The leaves of large seedlings of red leaf lettuce harvested approximately one month after sowing were placed in a petri dish (inner diameter 9 cm) in a thermostatic chamber (25°C) and irradiated with the following LED light for two days. UV-B LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 310 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):1 visible led light Peak wavelength [nm]: 407, 429, 443, 450, 465, 498, 548, 608, 647 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):200 Controls included those exposed to 443 nm LED light alone. The spectra of the LEDs used in the experiment are shown in Figures 15 and 16.

[0135] Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in FIG. 11-1 and FIG. 11-2, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 9 below. [Table 9]

[0136] From the results shown in Table 9 and Figures 11-1 and 11-2, it can be seen that LED light with a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 407 to 498 nm can color red-leaf lettuce leaves (i.e., increase the content of phenolic compounds) when combined with 310 nm LED light. The bold letters in the table indicate that the change in color intensity before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone.

[0137] (Experiment 7) Leaf disks with an inner diameter of 12 mm were prepared from the uncolored parts of red leaf lettuce leaves harvested about two months after sowing. In each petri dish (inner diameter 9 cm), 26 pieces of leaf disks were placed on wet absorbent cotton and irradiated with LED light in a thermostatic chamber (25°C) under the irradiation conditions shown in Table 10. Continuous light of 310 nm LED light was irradiated by reducing the photon flux density using an ND filter. The spectra of the LEDs used in the experiment are shown in Figures 15 and 16. [Table 10]

[0138] Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in FIG. 12, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 11 below. [Table 11]

[0139] From the results shown in Table 11 and Figure 12, when UV-B light is applied as intermittent light, the pulse frequency is 1.0 × 10 -4 Hz, the coloring effect (i.e., the effect of increasing the amount of phenolic compounds) due to the combination with blue light is reduced. On the other hand, -2 Hz or more, it can be seen that in combination with blue light, a coloring effect (i.e., an effect of increasing the amount of phenolic compounds) equivalent to that of continuous light is achieved. The inventors have determined that the pulse frequency is 1.0 × 10 -4The reason why the effect of intermittent UV-B light with a pulse period of less than 10,000 Hz (pulse period longer than 10,000 seconds) was weakened is considered to be as follows. That is, when the UV-B photoreceptor UVR8 in plants is exposed to UV-B light, the homodimer dissociates to form a monomer, and as a result, the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds (e.g., polyphenols) begins. If the state of not receiving UV-B continues for about 1 to 2 hours, the monomer forms a dimer again, and the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds (more specifically, phenylpropanoids and / or flavonols and / or anthocyanins) stops. Therefore, when UV-B light is irradiated as pulsed light (pulse period longer than 10,000 seconds), the biosynthesis of phenolic compounds that was once activated during the previous UV-B pulse light irradiation stops by the time of the next UV-B pulse light irradiation, and as a result, it is considered that the enhancing effect of simultaneous irradiation with blue light is weakened.

[0140] (Experiment 8) Experiment 2-1 was repeated for leaf discs with an inner diameter of 12 mm made from the unpigmented parts of red leaf lettuce leaves harvested approximately 2 months after sowing, except that the peak wavelength and irradiance of the UV-B LED light were as follows: UV-B LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 271, 280, 310, 330, 340 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]): 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 The spectra of the LEDs used are shown in Figures 15 and 16. Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in Figs. 13-1 to 13-5, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 12 below.

[0141] [Table 12]

[0142] From the results shown in Table 12 and Figures 13-1 to 13-5, it can be seen that light in the wavelength range of 270 nm to 340 nm, when combined with blue light, can color the leaves of red leaf lettuce at harvest time, and similar to other experimental results, light with shorter wavelengths tends to have a coloring effect (i.e., an increased amount of phenolic compounds) at a lower photon flux density. It was also observed that light around 270 nm and light around 340 nm tended to have a slightly inferior coloring effect to light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 330 nm. This is thought to be because light around 270 nm is closer to the DNA absorption spectrum than light in the longer wavelength range, damaging the DNA in the irradiated plant. On the other hand, light around 340 nm is absorbed less by the photoreceptor UVR8 than light in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 330 nm. The bold letters in the table indicate that the change in color intensity before and after irradiation was greater than when blue light was irradiated alone.

[0143] (Experiment 9) Among the leaf disks used in Experiment 8, those that were irradiated or not irradiated under the conditions shown in Table 13 below were further subjected to storage in the dark (20°C) for 2 days after irradiation or non-irradiation. The change in color intensity after irradiation and storage in the dark compared to before irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 13 below. [Table 13]

[0144] From the results shown in Table 13, it can be seen that storage in the dark after simultaneous irradiation according to the present disclosure allows coloring to progress further compared to immediately after simultaneous irradiation. This is thought to be the result of the fact that photosynthesis in the plant is substantially stopped during storage in the dark, avoiding energy consumption by photosynthesis and activation of other synthetic systems, while phenolic compounds (e.g., phenylpropanoids), which are precursors of flavonols and anthocyanins, increased in the plant by irradiation with ultraviolet light in a specific wavelength range, are synthesized into anthocyanins.

[0145] (Experiment 10) Cherry tomatoes (fruit bunches) harvested at a stage when coloring was insufficient were irradiated with the following UV-B LED light and blue LED light simultaneously for six days. UV-B LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 310 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):1 Blue LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 443 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):100 The spectra of the LEDs used are shown in Figures 15 and 16. A total of three cherry tomato bunches (samples 1 to 3) were used in this experiment. During the above-mentioned light irradiation, approximately half of each bunch (for example, the fruits on the left or right side of the stalk) were covered with aluminum foil to block out light and serve as non-irradiated controls.

[0146] The change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 14 below. [Table 14]

[0147] It is known that tomato fruits, which are climacteric fruits, continue to color over time even after harvest. From the results shown in Table 14, it can be seen that simultaneous irradiation with 310 nm LED light and blue light can further promote the coloring of tomato fruits after harvest. Since the coloring component of tomatoes is lycopene (a type of carotenoid), it was confirmed that the method disclosed herein increases the amount of carotenoids as well as phenolic compounds in irradiated plants.

[0148] (Experiment 11) Leaves of large seedlings of red leaf lettuce harvested approximately one month after sowing were placed in a petri dish (inner diameter 9 cm) in a thermostatic chamber (25° C.) and irradiated with the following light for two days. UV-B LED light Peak wavelength [nm]: 310 Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):1 visible light Blue LED light (peak wavelength [nm]: 443), white LED light or halogen lamp light Illuminance (photon flux density [μmol / m 2 / s]):200 The spectra of the LEDs used in the experiments are shown in Figures 15 and 17.

[0149] Photographs of the leaf disks after irradiation under each irradiation condition are shown in FIG. 14, and the change in color intensity before and after irradiation (Δ(RG) / (R+G)) is shown in Table 15 below. [Table 15]

[0150] From the results shown in Table 15 and FIG. 14, it can be seen that irradiation with a combination of 310 nm LED light and blue LED (443 nm) light can color red-leaf lettuce leaves (i.e., increase the content of phenolic compounds) more than irradiation with a combination of 310 nm LED light and white LED light or irradiation with a combination of 310 nm LED light and halogen lamp light.

Claims

1. For plants, The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm is 1.0 x 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 to 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm; Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light A method for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in a plant, comprising simultaneously irradiating the above two substances for 12 hours or more.

2. For plants, Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 265 nm to 350 nm is 1.0 × 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 nm to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 nm or more and less than 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm; Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light A method for increasing the amount of phenolic compounds in a plant, comprising simultaneously irradiating the above two substances for 12 hours or more.

3. The ultraviolet light It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 x 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0μmol / m 2 / s or less, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 x 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 x 10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, The method of claim 1.

4. The ultraviolet light It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 275 to 285 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0×10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or less, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 300 to 315 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0×10 -2 μmol / m 2 / s or more 2.5μmol / m 2 / s or less, or It has a peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm, and a photon flux density of 1.0 x 10 -1 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, The method of claim 1.

5. The ultraviolet light Light with a wavelength spectrum having a peak wavelength of 280±5 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, or Light having a wavelength spectrum with a peak wavelength of 310±7 nm and a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm, or Light with a peak wavelength of 330±5 nm and a wavelength spectrum with a full width at half maximum of 5 to 15 nm The method of claim 1 , comprising:

6. The visible light has a photon flux density of 50 to 300 μmol / m 2 The method of claim 1, wherein the s is / s.

7. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the plant does not contain a predetermined amount of phenolic compounds or is a plant with poor coloring.

8. the plant is a cultivated plant, Further comprising measuring a photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm and a photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm on or near the surface of the plant; When a first difference, which is a difference between a first predetermined amount of photon flux density in a wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm and the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm on or near the surface of the plant, is greater than 0, the ultraviolet light is irradiated to the plant at a photon flux density corresponding to the first difference; When a second difference, which is a difference between a second predetermined amount of photon flux density in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and the measured photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm on the surface of the plant or in its vicinity, is greater than 0, the visible light is irradiated to the plant at a photon flux density corresponding to the second difference. The method of claim 1.

9. the plant is a harvested plant, The method according to claim 1 , further comprising calculating a color degree of a surface of the plant, and irradiating the plant with the ultraviolet light and the visible light when the color degree value is lower than a predetermined value based on the color degree.

10. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the harvested plant is wrapped in a packaging material, and the packaging material has a transmittance of 50% or more for light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm and a transmittance of 10% or more for the ultraviolet light.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the phenolic compound is an anthocyanin.

12. the ultraviolet light is pulsed light, The visible light is continuous light. The method of claim 1.

13. For plants, The photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm is 1.0 x 10 -3 μmol / m 2 / s or more 1.0×10μmol / m 2 / s or less, and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 280 to 320 nm is 2.5 μmol / m 2 / s and the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 200 to 265 nm is less than 20% of the photon flux density in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm; Photon flux density in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm is 1.0 × 10 μmol / m 2 / s or more 6.0×10 2 μmol / m 2 / s or less and visible light and irradiate them simultaneously for more than 12 hours.

20. A method for producing a plant having an increased content of phenolic compounds, comprising:

14. At least one first light source capable of emitting visible light including light in a wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm; At least one second light source capable of emitting light within a wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm; An irradiation device comprising: The irradiance of the light in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm emitted from the irradiation device can be adjusted to 1 / 100 or less of the irradiance of the light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device.

15. When the irradiance of the light in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm emitted from the irradiation device is 1 / 100 of the irradiance of the light in the wavelength range of 400 to 500 nm emitted from the irradiation device, the irradiance uniformity of the light in the wavelength range of 270 to 350 nm emitted from the irradiation device is 0.7 or more.

15. Irradiation device according to claim 14.

16. The second light source can emit light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm and light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, or light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 275 to 295 nm, light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 295 to 315 nm, and light having a main peak wavelength in the wavelength range of 315 to 345 nm. The irradiation device according to claim 14 or 15.

17. The second light source has a duty ratio of 1% to 10% and a luminance of 1.0×10 -4 Hz or higher 3.0×10 2 The irradiation device according to claim 14 or 15, which performs pulsed lighting at a cycle of 0.1 Hz or less.

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