Solar drying for value addition and to minimize post-harvest losse

Abstract

Agriculture produce have been traditionally dried in the open sun for their consumpti 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 of the produce. Natu 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 ¡ value addition and proper packaging of the dried products to enhance shelflife are highlighted.