Optimization of the Spray-Drying Process for Developing Stingless Bee Honey Powder

Abstract Response surface methodology was used to optimize the spray-drying process for the development of stingless bee honey powder. The independent variables were: inlet air temperature (110–150 o C) and maltodextrin 10DE content (50–70 % wb). The responses were powder yield, moisture, volatiles retention, solubility time, hygroscopicity, bulk loose, and hydroxymethylfurfural content. Powder moisture content, solubility time, hygroscopicity and loose bulk density were negatively affected by inlet air temperature, while powder yield, volatiles retention and hydroxymethylfurfural content were directly related. Powder yield, volatiles retention and solubility time increased with the rise in maltodextrin content, while moisture content, hygroscopicity, loose bulk density and hydroxymethylfurfural content were negatively affected by maltodextrin content. Multiple response optimization indicated that an inlet air temperature of 150 o C and maltodextrin content of 61 % wb were predicted to provide 40 % powder yield, 4.9 % wb moisture content, 71 % volatiles retention, 242 s solubility time and 232 mg/kg hydroxymethylfurfural content.