Optimization of Osmotic Dehydration Process of Carrot Cubes in Sodium Chloride Solution

Abstract

For optimization of osmotic dehydration process of carrot cubes in sodium chloride solution by response surface methodology, the experiments were conducted according to Face-Centered Central Composite Design (CCF). The independent process variables for osmotic dehydration process were osmotic solution concentrations (5 -15% w/v sodium chloride), temperature (30 -50°C) and process durations (90 -150 minutes). The osmotic dehydration process was optimized for maximum water loss, minimum solute gain, maximum retention of colour and sensory score. The optimum conditions were 7.9 % sodium chloride concentration; 30°C osmotic solution temperature and 150 minutes process duration.