SPRAY DRYING OF ROSELLE (HIBISCUS-SABDARIFFA L) EXTRACT

Hibiscus sabdariffa (Roselle) powder was produced by pilot scale spray drying using single strength and vacuum concentrated water extract of its calyces. Powders were analyzed for moisture, protein, vitamin C, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, particle size, bulk density, solubility, dispersibility, hygroscopicity, and microbiological status. The lowest inlet air temperature (198.5°C) resulted in the product with best protein content (12.43%), retention of vitamin C (82.76 mg/ 100g), and solubility (dissolving in 97 sec); as well as the highest moisture content (3.78%) in the product. The powder showed a noticeable tendency to stick to internal surfaces of the drying chamber particularly with concentrated solutions at higher temperatures. Copyright © 1990, Wiley Blackwell. All rights reserved