Changes in chemical composition, volatile compound, and bioactive compounds retention in shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.) under different drying methods

Shallots (<i>Allium ascalonicum</i> L.) are widely used in culinary and medicinal applications due to their rich bioactive compounds and health benefits. This study examines the effects of freeze drying, sun drying, and hot air drying at 40, 60, and 80 °C on chemical and bioactive compounds in shallots. Hot air drying at 80 °C had the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Freeze drying increased syringic, <i>p</i>-coumaric, protocatechuic, vanillic, and ferulic acids. Quercetin was highest in freeze drying. Apigenin increased in samples that was dried by hot air drying at 80 °C. Proline was the major amino acid; arginine increased by 34 % in sun drying. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed polysaccharides, lipids-proteins, and amino acids. Eucalyptol was the predominant volatile component in fresh shallot and most preserved by freeze drying. The results underscore the significance of choosing suitable drying methods to preserve shallot bioactive compounds and antioxidant properties.