Studies on impact of comparative quality evaluation of sun and cabinet drying on chemical quality characteristics of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia)

Abstract

Present work have been undertaken to study the impact of different drying techniques on chemical qualities of dried bitter gourd (Momordica charantia). Momordica charantia Linn. (Bitter gourd) commonly known as bitter melon or bitter gourd is tropical and subtropical climber of the family Cucurbitaceae. Bitter gourd are known for its anti-diabetic, anti-fungal, anti-carcinogenic etc properties which contribute limitless numbers of benefits to human being. In present investigation the fresh bitter gourds were cleaned, cut and dried by sun drying and cabinet drying. The dried bitter gourd was analyzed for proximate, mineral and color characteristics. It was observed that the bitter gourd processed by cabinet drying was observed significantly superior over sun drying with respect to fat, protein, fiber and ash contents. The bitter gourd dried by cabinet drying was found significantly superior over sun drying with respect to calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron total chlorophyll and total carotene content. From the research it was concluded that the drying of bitter gourd resulted in concentration of nutrients. The cabinet drying method was found significantly superior over sun drying method with respect to chemical composition.