Study of Drying Technology for Fig (Ficus carica L.) Fruits

Abstract

This research is devoted to a comprehensive study of the technological parameters and economic efficiency of drying fig (Ficus carica L.) fruits under the climatic conditions of Uzbekistan. The study primarily focuses on the local "Sariq Anjir" (Tashkent/Namangan fig), "Qora Anjir," and the internationally recognized "Kadota" varieties. Three drying methods—natural sun drying, artificial convection drying, and combined methods—were subjected to a comparative analysis. Drying kinetics, energy consumption, nutrient preservation, and final product quality were utilized as key performance indicators.

Experimental results indicate that while natural sun drying is the most cost-effective in terms of energy consumption, it lacks stability regarding microbiological safety and product quality. Conversely, the combined drying method was identified as the most technologically superior; it ensures the preservation of optimal texture and color and provides high export-oriented characteristics while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to the artificial method. From an economic perspective, the "Sariq Anjir" variety recorded the highest profit indicators, achieving a net profit of 7.6 million UZS per ton and a profitability level of 61.3%. The study concludes that implementing combined drying technologies in the agricultural sector of Uzbekistan will drastically reduce harvest losses, stimulate the fruit and vegetable processing industry, and enhance the competitiveness of local dried figs in the global export market.