Drying kinetics and quality of uvaia (Hexachlamys edulis (O. Berg)) powder obtained by foam-mat drying

Investigations were carried out to study the influence of the formulation on the drying characteristics and the final quality of foam-mat-dried uvaia pulp powder, such as total phenolic content, carotenoids and antioxidant activity. Two formulations were developed (one with 3.5% albumin (Alb.), 0.25% carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) and 0.25% xanthan gum (XG), and the other containing only 7% albumin) and dried at 60 and 70 degrees C. Drying kinetics showed only a falling rate at both temperatures and formulations. Mathematical models were fitted to the experimental data to describe the drying kinetics. The Page model provided the best description of the foams. The higher temperatures reduced the drying time and increased the effective diffusivity. Compared with the fresh pulp, the uvaia powder at 70 degrees C exhibited decreased antioxidant activity, total phenolics and carotenoids contents.