Spray drying of extract from Euterpe oleracea Mart.: Optimization of process and characterization of the acai powder

The aim of this study was to optimize the conditions for spray drying acai extract using both response surface methodology and desirability function. Drying was based on an experimental design, where air temperature and feed flow were the independent variable. A high yield of acai powder was obtained, with low-moisture content and high anthocyanin retention. The desirability function indicated that a temperature of 134 degrees C and a feed flow of 9.00 ml/min constitute the optimal drying conditions (p < .05), under which the yield was 56.22% with high anthocyanin retention (80.99%) and low-moisture content (2.71 g 100 g(-1)). Scanning electron microscopy revealed the presence of spherical particles with average size <10.00 mu m, and energy-dispersive spectroscopy confirmed the nature of the organic dye. The acai powder was highly soluble (94.38%) and nonhygroscopic (hygroscopicity of 7.87%), indicating its potential as an additive in instant products and beverage industries. Practical applications Spray drying is a viable technique for obtaining powdered products with their original characteristics preserved. This study proposes optimized conditions for producing acai powder. The results indicate high yield, low degradation of anthocyanins, and low-moisture content, which are fundamental characteristics for application as subsidy for the products of food and pharmaceutical industries. Herein, we suggest the potential use of acai powder in many applications, including the development of dietary supplements, high-energy drinks, milk-based products, and instant and bakery products.