Effects of Spray-Drying Conditions on the Physicochemical Properties of Blackberry Powder

Author: Ferrari Cristhiane Caroline   Germer Silvia Pimentel Marconi   de Aguirre José Maurício  

Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

ISSN: 0737-3937

Source: Drying Technology, Vol.30, Iss.2, 2012-02, pp. : 154-163

Disclaimer: Any content in publications that violate the sovereignty, the constitution or regulations of the PRC is not accepted or approved by CNPIEC.

Previous Menu Next

Abstract

The purpose of this work was to study the effects of spray-drying conditions on the physicochemical characteristics of blackberry powder using a central composite rotatable design. Inlet air temperature (140–180°C) and maltodextrin concentration (5–25%) were employed as independent variables. Moisture content, hygroscopicity, anthocyanin retention, color, powder morphology, and particle size were analyzed. A higher inlet air temperature significantly increased the hygroscopicity of the powder, decreased its moisture content, and led to the formation of larger particles with smooth surfaces. Powders produced with higher maltodextrin concentrations were less hygroscopic, slightly lighter and less red, and had a lower moisture content. Anthocyanin retention was mainly affected by drying temperature due to the heat sensitivity of the pigment. The optimal processing conditions were an inlet air temperature of 140–150°C and maltodextrin concentration of 5–7%. Overall, these results indicate that good quality powders can be obtained by spray drying, with potential applications for the food industry.