The color characteristics of longan flesh were studied during air drying using the CIE system determining L*, a*
and b* values. The values of L* and hue angle decreased while the values of a*
, b*, 'E and chroma increased and then decreased when the drying time and drying air temperature increased. The
modified kinetic model (second order polynomial equation) was the most suitable to describe the changes in L*
and b* values while the best model describing the changes in a* values was zero-order kinetic model. The zero-order kinetic model was appropriate representation for describing the changes in 'E values.
Both models could predict the color change of longan flesh during drying relatively well. It was found
that the drying air temperature and drying time had an effect on the color change during drying processes.