On the basis of the performed drying tests it can be concluded that the most preferred drying method for cherries is the
intermittent drying with preliminary ultrasound assisted osmotic
dehydration. This drying method can reduce the total drying time
by about 2 h, with respect to drying in constant conditions without osmotic pretreatment, and preserves the color as well as it can
extend the shelf life of dried fruits because of decrease in water
activity. In addition, the combination of the osmotic pretreatment
and the intermittent drying decreases also the total energy consumption due to shortening the total drying time in hot air drying.