ABSTRACT: The maturity of ginger rhizomes was studied by measuring their moisture content, fibre, density, and 6-
gingerol content. Ginger rhizomes were harvested and divided into three groups according to their age of 4–6, 7–9, and
10–12 months. The results revealed that as ginger rhizomes age, moisture content and density decreased, while fibre and
6-gingerol content increased. Therefore, ginger maturity with the age of 10–12 months was used in the drying process. The
effects of the drying aids maltodextrin and liquid glucose and inlet air temperatures on the properties of ginger powders
were assessed. Moisture content, water activity, bulk density, water adsorption index, 6-gingerol content, and colour values
of ginger powders decreased with increasing inlet air temperatures. Particle size, solubility, and water solubility index
increased with increasing inlet air temperatures (p 6 0.05). Moisture content, water activity, water adsorption index, and
particle size decreased with increasing the drying aids. Solubility, water solubility index, and yield increased with increasing
the drying aids. The addition of 5% liquid glucose and an inlet air temperature of 120 °C resulted in good properties and the
highest 6-gingerol content of the ginger powders. It was noted that liquid glucose could function as a drying aid and as an
encapsulating agent.