Saudi Journal of Engineering and Technology (SJEAT)
Volume-4 | Issue-08 | 274-278
Original Research Article
Modelling the Effects of Temperature on Moisture Adsorption and Desorption Isotherms for Baobab (Adansonia digitata) Pulp Powder
Adefemiwa Ayobami Adekunle, Taofik Akinyemi Shittu, Moruf Olanrewaju Oke, James Abiodun Adeyanju, Oluwakemi Busayo Adetoro, Ibrahim Olajide Bazambo, Bisola Adeyemi-Ayelagbe
Published : Aug. 20, 2019
Abstract
Moisture sorption isotherms describe the relationship between moisture content and water activity in food. In this study,
adsorption and desorption isotherms for baobab fruit pulp powder was investigated. Static gravimetric method for
adsorption and desorption over the range of temperature (27-42 oC) and water activity (aw) (0.10-0.80) was used. The
experimental data were compared with four recommended models in the literature for food sorption isotherms (GAB,
modified Oswin (MOE), modified Henderson (MHDE), and modified Chung-Pfost (MCE). Equilibrium moisture
contents decreased with increase in temperature at all the water activity levels studied. The differences between the
adsorption and desorption curves were significant at p<0.05 and the hysteresis loops were affected by temperature. GAB
model was found to be suitable for predicting the moisture sorption isotherms for baobab fruit pulp powder. Results
obtained from this study showed the relationship between temperature and water activity as it affects the shelf life of
baobab fruit pulp powder.