Studies on development of neera powder from coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) neera by using spray dryer

Abstract

Coconut sap (Neera) has natural source of proteins, vitamins minerals, and rich amount of sugar which is collected from coconut palm, but auto fermentation is a major drawback in coconut neera, spray drying is a tool to reduce the fermentation process. Coconut neera powder was developed through spray drying at different inlet air temperature (130 °C, 140 °C, and 150 °C) and TSS at 20° brix, 25° brix, 30° brix and feed rate of 25ml/min. Physical properties of coconut neera powder were investigated and mini spray drier was used. Study results indicated that the inlet air temperature of 130 °C and with the addition of carrier agent (Maltodextrin) 25° brix produces the maximum drying characters.