Litchi drying is a delicate art that requires precise temperature control, humidity management, and staged dehydration to preserve the fruit’s flavor, texture, and nutritional value. MeiYa air-source heat pump dryers offer an energy-efficient, eco-friendly solution for large-scale Litchi processing. Below is a step-by-step guide to optimizing Litchi drying with MeiYa technology.
1. Preprocessing & Fresh Litchi Requirements
• Fresh Litchi Input:
Different Litchi varieties yield varying quantities of dried product per 100 kg:
• Mantouzi (糯米糍): 400–450 kg fresh Litchis
• Xiangli (香荔): 380–420 kg fresh Litchis
• Heiye (黑叶) & Heli (禾荔): 320–360 kg fresh Litchis
Select fully ripe, undamaged fruits. Wash and drain thoroughly before drying.
2. Primary Drying Stage
• Temperature: 65–70°C (ensure the shell feels hot to the touch).
• Duration: 24 hours.
• Procedure:
• Arrange Litchis evenly on MeiYa dryer trays to ensure airflow.
• Turn fruits every 2–3 hours to prevent uneven drying.
• After 24 hours, stop the dryer and allow Litchis to cool naturally.
• Post-Drying Step:
Transfer cooled Litchis into breathable bags and stack them for 2–3 days. This allows internal moisture to redistribute, preparing the fruits for secondary drying.
3. Secondary Drying Stage
• Temperature: 55–65°C.
• Duration: 10–12 hours.
• Procedure:
• Reload Litchis into the MeiYa dryer.
• Turn fruits every 2 hours to maintain uniformity.
• Most varieties will reach optimal dryness (moisture content <18%) by this stage.
Note for Thick-Fleshed Varieties (e.g., Mantouzi):
If fruits remain slightly moist internally, store them at ambient temperature for 3–5 days. This allows residual moisture to migrate outward before the third drying phase.
4. Tertiary Drying (Optional for Large Fruits)
• Temperature: 45–50°C.
• Duration: 8–10 hours.
• Purpose:
Ensures complete dehydration of thick-pulp varieties while preserving color and aroma.
Advantages of MeiYa Heat Pump Dryers
- Precision Control: Adjustable temperature (±1°C) and humidity settings prevent over-drying or case-hardening.
- Energy Efficiency: Heat recovery technology reduces energy consumption by up to 60% compared to conventional dryers.
- Uniform Airflow: Patented tray design ensures consistent drying across all layers.
- Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions and quiet operation comply with international food-processing standards.
Quality Inspection & Storage
• Final Product: Dried Litchis should have a leathery texture, deep red-brown color, and natural sweetness.
• Storage: Pack in airtight containers with desiccants. Store in cool, dry conditions (shelf life: 12–18 months).
Why Choose MeiYa?
MeiYa’s air-source heat pump dryers are trusted by leading Litchi processors in Guangdong and across Southeast Asia. Our systems combine cutting-edge technology with customizable drying programs to maximize yield and quality.
For customized drying solutions or technical support, contact MeiYa’s expert team.
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