Drying of Desi Katha at Different Temperatures, Relative Humidity Levels and in Bry-air Dehumidifier

Abstract

Drying of 'desi' katha at six different temperatures, nine relative humidity levels and in Bry-air dehumidifier was studied. Drying was rapid at 30°C but katha characteristics were maintained well when drying was executed at 5 or l0°C. The duration of drying period was longer at 5°C as compared to drying to 30°C. Drying at 40 percent relative humidity took 50 days as compared to 125 days at 80 percent relative humidity to achieve the desired moisture content. In Bry-Air dehumidifier, it took only 7 days to achieve the desired moisture content in desi katha as compared to 45 days under traditional factory conditions.