Effect of Solar Radiation on the Drying Parameters of Mint (Mentha Spicata L.) Dried in Natural Convective Solar Dryer

The paper presents a kinetic study of solar dried mint ( Mentha spicata L.) without any pre-treatment. Mint grows effortlessly in Kashmir valley but is not obtainable throughout the year because of inconsiderate weather conditions. The genus belongs to the Labiatae family and includes large varieties with different properties. A significant quality parameter is its colour. The drying kinetics of mint leaves dried in Domestic Solar Dryer in terms of colour attributes, moisture content, drying time, non enzymatic browning, water activity, rehydration ratio was studied. This study is very useful for household scale drying of mint leaves to optimize drying process and to achieve superior quality dried product at home maintaining its colour and aroma.