7.2 Sun Drying
Throughout the world, sun drying is a popular drying method. The sun's radiant heat evaporated moisture. The traditional method consists of spreading a thin layer of the product on a smooth pad. The product is stirred and turned over at intervals. Drying proceeds well in warm, dry weather. The temperature of the product during sun drying ranges from 5 to 15 °C above ambient temperature, and drying time may extend up to 3-4 weeks, as for raisins and apricots. Color, shape, and the initial and desired final moisture conditions of the product influence product temperatures and drying time.