Solar Drying for Value Addition and to Minimize Post-harvest Losses

摘要

Agriculture produce have been traditionally dried in the open sun for their consumption during off-season. Drying is essential to prevent spoilage due to micro-organisms. Drying in the open results in contamination with dust and after discoloration ofthe produce. Natural circulation solar dryers have been effectively used to dehydrate the farm produce. Some case studies vegetables, spices, condiments and fruit are discussed. The solar drying for value addition and proper packaging of the dried products to enhance shelflife are highlighted.