Effect of convective drying temperature and tray load density on bioactive compounds, antioxidant properties, and...

This study examined the effects of convective drying parameters, including temperature (40, 50, and 60 °C) and tray loading density (0.057 and 0.113 g/cm²), on the bioactive compounds, antioxidant properties, and structural characteristics of radish sango microgreens powder. Drying at 50 °C with 0.057 g/cm² preserved the highest anthocyanins (43.23 μmol/100 g), phenolics (189.45 mg GAE/100 g), and antioxidant activities (DPPH 43.13 %, and FRAP 10.80 μmol TE/g), while drying at 50 °C with 0.113 g/cm² preserved the highest flavonoids (5.86 mg QUE/100 g) and ascorbic acid (239.18 mg/100 g) of radish sango microgreens. Degradation kinetics followed a first-order model, with thermal sensitivity varying among compounds. FTIR analysis revealed functional groups linked to bioactive compounds, while SEM showed flake-like particles enhancing solvent interaction. These findings highlight the significance of controlled drying in retaining functional and structural qualities, supporting the potential of radish sango microgreens in functional food and pharmaceuticals applications.