Effect of solar drying methods on proximate composition, sugar profile and organic acids of mango varieties in Tanzania.

Solar drying is a simple and affordable alternative technology for reducing the enormous post-harvest losses of agricultural produce in developing countries. However, it may result in nutritional loss if not well applied. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of solar drying methods on proximate composition, sugars and organic acids of different mango varieties (Dodo, Viringe and Kent) in Tanzania. The varieties were dried using cabinet mixed-mode and tunnel dryers and analyzed for the named parameters. Potassium, sucrose and citric acids were the most abundant mineral, sugar and organic acids in mango varieties respectively. Proximate composition, sugars and organic acids differed significantly (p < 0.05) between fresh and dried samples and between drying methods with all fresh samples having higher values. Despite the loss, a significant quantity of proximate composition (> 65%), sugars (87-99%), and organic acids (71-80.1%) were retained in dried samples, with tunnel...