Freeze-Drying Characteristics for the Conservation of Bee Pollen

Abstract

Bee pollen is very important in the nutrition of bees since it provides them with proteins, lipids, vitamins and minerals. Bee pollen also has a significant nutritive value as a supplement to human nutrition. Fresh bee pollen contains a large quantity of moisture which favors development of various microorganisms. In order to preserve pollen from spoilage its dehydration in controlled conditions is commonly performed. In this paper, freeze-drying was proposed as a conservation method. Results showed increment in the drying rate and improve the product quality compared to traditional hot air drying. The current work provides theoretical and technical reference for applying this type of technology.