Lyophilisation of fresh banana slices
Freeze drying is a gentle form of drying and may be used to preserve foods without changing their appearance or taste. The freeze drying process includes the freezing of the food sample and subsequent applying a fine vacuum to the frozen sample. Under these conditions, the water in the food will sublimate, hence, the sample dries. In food applications, freeze drying is commonly used to make instant coffee and to dry and conserve fruits, vegetables or herbs.