Optimization of Parameters for Microwave-Assisted Foam Mat Drying of Blackcurrant Pulp

Abstract

Both analysis and optimization of parameters of microwave-assisted foam mat drying (MAFM), viz. microwave power, pulp load, drying time, and pulp thickness, for the dehydration process of blackcurrant pulp were performed in a household microwave oven. During MAFM drying, microwave power, pulp load, and drying time have positive effects on both vitamin C and anthocyanin content of blackcurrant pulp up to a certain level then a negative trend is observed. The increase of microwave power and decrease of pulp load accelerate the dehydration of blackcurrant pulp. The pulp thickness has a significant positive effect on both vitamin C and anthocyanin content of blackcurrant pulp. The optimum parameters valid for MAFM drying of blackcurrant pulp are as follows: microwave power of 560 W, pulp load of 65 g, drying time of 8 min, and pulp thickness of 4.46 mm. MAFM drying is a potential method for dehydrating blackcurrant pulp.

Keywords:

• Blackcurrant pulp
• Foam mat drying
• Microwave
• Optimization
• Response surface methodology

Notes

*Pulp thickness is the equivalent value, and each unit 9 (at −2 code value level) equal of 1.52 mm.

X ₁, microwave power; X ₂, pulp load; X ₃, drying time; X ₄, pulp thickness.

*Significant at p < 0.05. **Extremely significant at p < 0.01.

X ₁, microwave power; X ₂, pulp load; X ₃, drying time; X ₄, pulp thickness.

*Significant at p < 0.05. **Extremely significant at p < 0.01.

X ₁, microwave power; X ₂, pulp load; X ₃, drying time; X ₄, pulp thickness.

*Significant at p < 0.05. **Extremely significant at p < 0.01.