Preliminary solar drying studies of some Florida fruits and vegetables.
Wagner C. J. Jr., Bryan W. L., Berry R. E.
Author Affiliation: US Citrus and Subtropical Products Laboratory, P.O.Box 1909, Winter Haven, Florida 33880, USA.
Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society 90 : 158-161
Abstract : In preliminary experiments Florida grown fruits (peaches and mangoes) and vegetables (carrots, celery, green peppers and parsley) were dried with forced ambient air circulation in an enclosed solar drier using direct solar energy concentrated 2- to 3-fold by reflectors. Dried products were compared with similar products prepared in a conventional hot-air forced-draught drier, and with commercial products. Comparisons were based on flavour, colour, moisture content and shrinkage. All solar dried products were considered acceptable.