Production and Characterization of Hibiscus Sabdariffa by Spray Dryer Using Different Sprinkler Nozzles and Carrier Agents

Hibiscus Sabdariffa has high antioxidant capacity, but as the fruit in natura can degrade, the drying process can assist in the conservation and the spray drying is a widely used technique. The objective was to evaluate the drying of H. sabdariffa by spray dryer, employing different diameter nozzles and carrier agents. The process yield and the powder properties such as moisture content, water activity, hygroscopicity, solubility, anthocyanins, antioxidant capacity, and color were determined. Regardless of the formulation, the powders showed low water activity (<0.27) and hygroscopicity (<20%), which guarantees good handling and showed a high solubility (>77%). In relation to the antioxidant compounds, the powder obtained from the interaction of gum arabic and chitosan presented higher anthocyanin content and antioxidant capacity. Therefore, it was concluded that both carrier agents and the diameter of the sprinkler nozzle influenced the yield and the chemical and antioxidant properties of H. sabdariffa. Practical applications Hibiscus sabdariffa is widely consumed and its health benefits are due to the presence of antioxidant compounds. However, during the drying process by spray dryer, different factors can lead to the degradation of the antioxidant compounds. Thus, controlling the drying parameters is necessary to evaluate how the process affects the content of antioxidant compounds. The obtained H. sabdariffa extract presented a retention of anthocyanins and antioxidant compounds, which makes its application possible in different products.