Spray drying process optimization: Drought resistant variety (W82) soymilk powder using response surface methodology (RSM)

Drought-tolerated Williams 82 (W82) soybean variety is developed to increase the soybean production yield, adversely affected by abiotic stress. This study explores developing W82 soymilk powder using spray drying technology to address the needs of booming plant-based food sector. The processing parameters and powder properties were optimized using Central Composite Design (CCD)-Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Spray drying parameters such as Outlet Temperature (OT) (°C), run time (min) & thermal efficiency (%) were optimized based on the experimental data. Spray dried powder yield (%), pH, color value (L*, delta E & chroma), flowability, water activity, wetting time (min), pH, viscosity, water solubility index (%), water absorption index, particle, rheological, and thermal properties were analyzed. Based on the experimental data and RSM optimization, best combinations of spray dried W82 soymilk powder were obtained at 140 °C Inlet Temperature (IT), 35 m3 /h (90%) aspirator, and 5 mL/min (15%) Feed rate (FR). All the optimizing parameters and results were validated by regression analysis model fit data using p value (<0.05), R2value (>0.90) and desirability value (>0.5).