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.