Effects of different drying treatments on the stability of carotenoids in Taiwanese mango (Mangifera indica L.)

Abstract: The stability of carotenoids in Taiwanese mango as affected by different drying treatments was studied. Mangoes were soaked in 1% sodium hydrogen sulfite solution or 1% ascorbic acid solution, prior to hot-air drying and freeze-drying. Results showed that in most cases, the highest yield of the epoxy-containing carotenoids was achieved by freeze-drying plus soaking in 1% sodium hydrogen sulfite solution. However, freeze-drying plus soaking in 1% ascorbic acid solution resulted in the highest retention of all-trans-β-carotene and its cis isomers, all-trans-zeaxanthin and its cis isomers, as well as cis-lutein. Nevertheless, for hot-air drying, with or without soaking, a mango product of deep orange colour was produced. On freeze-drying, mango could generate yellow colour, while a lighter color was observed when soaked in antioxidants. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]