A Review of Drying Processes in the Production of Pumpkin Powder

Abstract

Abstract Pumpkin is widely used as a valuable food source and is gaining the attention of healthcare consumers. Dried powdering pumpkin is an alternative way to increase the consumption. For these reasons, a sound knowledge of the processes for drying and powdering of pumpkin is needed. Therefore, the present review summarizes data from the literature and points out promising areas for further research. This review focused mainly on various processes of dried pumpkin powder, including pre-treatment techniques which can influence the quality of dried product. Impacts of drying and storage methods on quality changes were also revealed in dried pumpkin powder such as the loss of color, changes in texture or an off-flavor and decreases in carotenoids or other nutrients. Moreover, this review also collected the basic information about characterization of pumpkin fruit and also chemical characteristics and nutritional values of pumpkin. Finally, the review pointed out areas for future research to further elucidate the best methods of dried pumpkin powdering for the local companies.