Optimisation of the spray drying process of formulating the post-harvest biocontrol agent Meyerozyma caribbica

ABSTRACTIn this study, conditions of the spray-drying process of Meyerozyma caribbica were optimised using response surface methodology (RSM). The effect of three parameters (protective agent, inlet air temperature and protective agent concentration) on the cell viability of Meyerozyma caribbica was evaluated. Each parameter was evaluated at three levels. All of the evaluated factors presented an effect on the viability of the control agent. According to RSM, optimal conditions include the use of trehalose with a concentration of 7.75% (w/v) and inlet air temperature of 112.5°C. The validation of the optimal spray-drying conditions allows obtaining a formulation of M. caribbica with 95.41 ± 0.93% viability, 5 ± 0.37% humidity and aw of 0.33 ± 0.11. Storage for six months at 4°C presented a 5% loss in cell viability.