Development of a microwave heater system for roasting of hazelnuts: effects on the hazelnut quality characteristics

OpenAlex · İngilizce

Hazelnuts are an important additive in many industrial foods and are consumed as a snack due to their high nutrient content. Due to the increasing energy costs caused by global warming and the high world population, the low-cost and high-quality roasting of hazelnut kernels is gaining industrial importance. In this study, a microwave heater was designed, and its performance characteristics were investigated to roast hazelnut kernels at a low cost without compromising their quality. The prototype microwave heater was modeled in 3D and then manufactured as an experimental setup by selecting the appropriate material. The hazelnut kernels of the Giresun variety (Corylus avellana L.) roasted according to the prototype were analyzed for moisture, ash, color, water activity, free fatty acids, total phenolic content, and aflatoxins. Although the water activity value decreased on average by 34.4%, aflatoxin values were within acceptable limits. Apart from this, no loss of quality was observed in the measured parameters. According to the results of the study, roasting hazelnut kernels in a microwave heater may lead to advantages in terms of cost while maintaining quality characteristics.