Optimization of spray drying conditions for lulo (Solanum quitoense L.) pulp

The spray drying of lulo was optimized by using the central composite design of the response surface methodology, to study the effect of inlet air temperature (120–180 °C), arabic gum concentration (0–10% w/w), and maltodextrin DE16.5-19.5 concentration (0–10% w/w) on some product and process aspects. Arabic gum and maltodextrin, more than inlet air temperature, improved the product yield, reduced the hygroscopicity and the water content of the obtained powder, and contributed to the retention of its nutritive and functional properties through an increase in ascorbic acid, vitamin C, total phenol and total flavonoid content and antioxidant capacity. Significant (p < 0.05) response surface models were obtained in every case, with the linear terms of solute concentration being the factors that affected the response variables most significantly. The overall optimum spray drying conditions for obtaining lulo powder were 125 °C inlet air temperature, 3% (w/w) arabic gum, and 13.4% (w/w) maltodextrin DE16.5-19.5.