Osmotic-convective dehydrofreezing process for drying kiwifruit

Osmotic and convective dehydrofreezing were studied to determine sugar concentration, ascorbic acid loss, and texture changes in dried and dehydrofrozen kiwifruit. Two concentrations of sucrose (60 degrees and 72 degrees Brix) were used as osmotic solutions after convective air drying. Time needed to reach desired moisture was reduced with combined drying compared with osmotic drying. Firmness was evaluated by the maximum force from a back extrusion test. A reduction in maximum force was observed after freezing, as compared with fresh and dried fruit. Addition of ascorbic and citric acid as antioxidants in the osmotic solution prevented browning, and significant loss of ascorbic acid during osmotic drying. Air drying at 30 degrees C produced distinguishable color changes.