Effects of different drying treatments on the stability of carotenoids in Taiwanese mango (Mangifera indica L.)

The stability of carotenoids in Taiwanese mango as affected by different drying treatments was studied. Mangoes were soaked in 1% sodium hydrogen sulfite solution or 1% ascorbic acid solution, prior to hot-air drying and freeze-drying. Results showed that in most cases, the highest yield of the epoxy-containing carotenoids was achieved by freeze-drying plus soaking in 1% sodium hydrogen sulfite solution. However, freeze-drying plus soaking in 1% ascorbic acid solution resulted in the highest retention of all-trans-β-carotene and its cis isomers, all-trans-zeaxanthin and its cis isomers, as well as cis-lutein. Nevertheless, for hot-air drying, with or without soaking, a mango product of deep orange colour was produced. On freeze-drying, mango could generate yellow colour, while a lighter color was observed when soaked in antioxidants.