Microwave: An overview

The uses and applications of microwave for processing at industrial level have gained immense interest over the years due to the notable decrease in consumption of energy and cooking time. Drying and sterilization as microwave processing techniques are significantly contributors for food quality and safety control processes. This chapter provides an overview of the microwave processing techniques used in the food industry. An introduction is presented to the fundamentals and principles of microwaves. This chapter also describes the advantages and benefits of microwave-assisted techniques as compared to conventional techniques. The varied applications of microwave energy in the food industry are summarized and an insight is provided into the current research and up-to-date developments.