2.2. Sample preparation
Two batches of stem lettuce cubes were used for blanching. The
first batch was used to study the effects of different blanching
methods (boiling water and microwave heating) on dielectric
properties and microstructures of stem lettuce cubes before
MFD/FD processing. The second batch was used to study the effects
of different blanching methods on the MFD drying rate in a circular
conduit drying chamber as well as on texture and microstructures
of dried stem lettuce cubes. Table 1 gives an overview of the experimental
plan with different blanched samples used in this study.