Optimization of Spray Drying Technology for Sugarcane Juice Using Natural and Synthetic Encapsulating Agents

The present study investigated the optimum process conditions for spray drying of sugarcane juice using different natural (carrot fiber) and synthetic (maltodextrin, gum arabic, liquid glucose) encapsulating agents. Spray drying was performed in a pilot-scale spray dryer under the varying conditions of inlet air temperature (140–160 °C), outlet air temperature (90–105 °C), concentration of encapsulating agents (10–50% w/w), and total soluble solids (TSS) of the feed (13–15 g/100 g). The interaction between process variables and glass transition temperature (Tg) of sugarcane juice revealed a significant effect on dried powder yield. Based on recovery of spray-dried powder, 30% maltodextrin, 14 g/100 g TSS, 150 °C inlet air temperature, and 100 °C outlet air temperature was optimized for sugarcane juice powder. The obtained powders were then analyzed for their nutritional, physical, and morphological properties. Moreover, sensory acceptability of reconstituted sugarcane juice powder proved spray drying as a potential tool for conversion of sugarcane juice into a shelf stable convenience processed product.