IMFs having water activity 0.6-0.84 are produced by a number of methods:
– Partial drying of raw foods that have high levels of naturally occurring humectants (dried fruits)
– Osmotic dehydration by soaking food pieces in a more concentrated solution of humectant (crystallized or candied fruits, salted fish/vegetables)
– Dry infusion involves drying the food pieces and then soaking in a humectant solution to produce the required aw
– Formulated IMFs that are mixed to form a dough or paste that is then extruded, cooked or baked to the required aw
• IMFs are compact, convenient to consumers, ready-toeat and are cheaper to distribute