Comparative Evaluation of Drying Methods on the Quality Characteristics of Musa paradisiaca Floret Powder

¹ Department of Food Processing and Technology, School of Vocational Studies and Applied Sciences, Gautam Buddha University
² Department of Biotechnology, School of Biotechnology, Gautam Buddha University
³ School of Advanced Agriculture Sciences and Technology (SAAST), Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kalyanpur, Kanpur - 208024

^* Corresponding authors: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

The present study investigated the effect of different drying methods on the quality characteristics of banana floret powder (BFF). Banana blossom florets were selected due to their richness in dietary fiber, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidants, which are associated with potential health benefits, including the management of diabetes, PCOS, and cancer. Fresh banana florets were pre-treated with 1% potassium metabisulphite (KMS) solution and subjected to tray drying (TD), fluidized bed drying (FBD), and freeze drying (FD). The drying methods were compared based on their effects on the physicochemical, nutritional, functional, mineral, and color properties of BFF. Among the drying techniques, FD exhibited superior quality retention with the lowest moisture content (3.50%) and significantly higher ash (10.2%), fat (3.2%), protein (12.6%), and fiber (20.6%) contents, indicating better nutrient preservation. Functional properties were also significantly improved in FD samples, demonstrating enhanced techno-functional characteristics suitable for value-added food applications. Mineral analysis revealed greater retention of iron, manganese, zinc, calcium, and magnesium in FD samples compared to TD and FBD. Furthermore, FD showed significantly higher L* and C* values, indicating better color preservation. Overall, freeze drying was identified as the most effective drying method for producing nutritionally superior and functionally stable banana floret powder, followed by fluidized bed drying.