Microbial load reduction using modified Solar Conduction Dryer with composite filters

Abstract

The present work studies the microbial load reduction in sapota and beet root by three different drying methods i.e. Open Sun Drying (OSD), Solar Conduction Drying (SCD) and a modified SCD with filters (SCDF). Parameters analyzed were water activity, moisture content, drying kinetics, Total Viable Counts, Total Fungal Counts and ash content. It was found that the samples dried in SCDF showed least microbial counts, faster drying times and lower ash content as comparison to OSD. This study shows that SCD and its modification provide a better alternative for low cost drying of fruits and vegetables for quality retention. Keywords: Microbial reduction; SCD Filters; Sapota; Beetroot