Systematic Method for the Preparation of Dried Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Slices Varieties Allahabad Safeda and Lalit

Guava ranks among top five economically important crops of India. However, it record the highest postharvest loss and needs to be processed for higher shelf life and utility. The purpose of this study is to create a standardized approach for producing dried guava slices from two specific varieties, Allahabad Safeda and Lalit. The aim is to discover the best drying and flavoring techniques that will enhance both the sensory and nutritional qualities of the guava slices. Various processing factors, including drying temperature, time, and methods of flavor infusion, were rigorously tested to analyse their influence on the final product's texture, color, flavor, and overall consumer acceptance. The present investigation was conducted at Post-Harvest Laboratory of Department of Horticulture, SHUATS, Naini, Prayagraj during the year 2022-23. The purpose of this research was to create a consistent method for preparing dried guava slices from two different varieties, Allahabad Safeda and Lalit, employing a factorial completely randomized design (FCRD). The experiment incorporated two factors: factor A, which included the two guava varieties Allahabad Safeda and Lalit, and factor B, which consisted of six treatment options (T0: Control, T1: Sugar + Mint, T2: Sugar + Tulsi, T3: Sugar + Lemon grass, T4: Honey, T5: Jaggery). This resulted in a total of 12 treatment combinations. The goal was to discover the most effective treatment for generating dried guava slices with the best quality characteristics. Our experimental findings led to the conclusion that the factors that interact T4V1 honey +Allahabad safeda provided the best overall results at 60 days, TSS (23.89 °Brix), Titratable acidity (0.33%), Ascorbic acid (164.17 mg), Reducing sugars (6.85%), Non- reducing sugars (5.96%), Total Sugars (12.27) enhancing flavour, texture, and overall acceptability. Honey's application significantly elevated the natural sweetness and scent of the guava slices, culminating in a product that is highly attractive. The findings of the study indicate that using honey as a drying treatment for guava slices is the most effective strategy for enhancing the quality of dried slices from both the Allahabad Safeda and Lalit varieties, highlighting its potential for commercial exploitation in the dried fruit market.