Further Studies of the Processes Involved in the Preservation of Carotene in Dehydrated Alfalfa and Cereal Grasses

Abstract

The rate of CO2 production and O2 consumption by dehydrated alfalfa and cereal grasses under sealed conditions was studied at moisture levels of 10-25%. The rate of respiration increased as the level of moisture and the temp. were increased. The extent of CO2 production and O2 consumption was variable with time at a given moisture level. The rate of CO2 production in a dehydrated alfalfa with 10% of total water is < 1/3 the rate observed when the product contains 20% of total water. With 10% or less of total water, the rate of CO2 production and O2 consumption generally is too slow to insure complete carotene preservation under sealed conditions. The carotene losses may vary from 5 to 30% during storage at room temps. of 22-25[degree]C for 3 months. With 12.5% of total water under sealed conditions for 3 months both products (alfalfa, Heil Drier, and alfalfa, Fulmer Drier) retained completely their carotene content as well as their green color.