Effects of Thermal Pre-Treatments and Drying Processes on the Retention of Phytonutrients, Vitamins, and Antioxidant Activity in Dried Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)

Opportunities to capture anticipated niche markets for diverse populations continue to rise. Okra (<i>Abelmoschus esculentus</i> L.), considered a high-value crop, is rich in nutritional and medicinal properties; however, fresh okra is highly perishable. This study examined the effects of thermal pre-treatments and drying processes in combination on the nutritional quality of dried okra. The experiment consisted of two thermal treatments (steam-blanched and hot water-blanched, and the control) and three drying treatments (freeze-dried, hot air-dried, and infrared-dried). Okra was grown in black plastic mulch, harvested twice per week, and processed three times throughout the growing season. The study analyzed moisture content, water activity, phytonutrients, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, and antioxidant activities. No significant differences were observed in moisture content and water activity among the treatments. Significant differences were observed among treatments and harvest time for total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity. Notable differences in β-carotene content were observed across all treatments. Based on the findings, the steam-blanched freeze-dried treatment was the most effective preservation technique for maintaining the nutritional and functional quality of dried okra. Hot water-blanching, hot air-drying, and infrared-drying were the least effective for the development of a high-value, nutrient-dense dried okra value-added product.