Osmotic dehydration is the process of water removal
by immersion of water containing cellular solids
(fruits/vegetables) in a concentrated aqueous solution
of sugar/ salt. This results in intermediate moisture
product with lower water activity. At low water
activity, most of the chemical reactions which
deteriorate the food, the growth and toxins production
by microorganisms are ceased. Besides, it improves the
colour, flavour and texture and is less energy intensive
process compared air or vacuum drying process as no
phase change takes place during the moisture removal
from the substrate.