The Effect of Pretreatment on the Quality and Frying Kinetics of Sweet Potato Chips

This study explores the impact of different pretreatment methods on the quality attributes of fried potato chips, focusing on parameters such as carbohydrate content, fat absorption, frying time, and overall product quality. The pretreatment methods investigated include ultrasound vacuum drying, ultrasound pretreatment alone, and no pretreatment (control). The results show that the type of pretreatment significantly affects the nutritional and physical properties of the potato chips, as well as their frying efficiency. Potato chips pretreated with ultrasound vacuum drying had the highest carbohydrate content (40.6%) and the lowest fat absorption, indicating that this method effectively preserves nutritional quality by reducing moisture content and minimizing thermal degradation during frying. Additionally, these chips required the shortest frying time, becoming fully cooked within 1 minute, which further reduces oil uptake and enhances product quality. Chips treated with ultrasound pretreatment alone retained a moderate carbohydrate content (33.6%) and a balanced fat absorption level. These chips required a slightly longer frying time of 3 minutes, indicating effective moisture reduction and structural modification, though less efficient than the combination of ultrasound and vacuum drying. In contrast, the control chips, which did not undergo any pretreatment, showed the lowest carbohydrate content (21.6%) and the highest fat absorption, reflecting greater moisture retention and less structural modification. These chips required the longest frying time of 4 minutes, resulting in more significant nutrient loss and higher oil uptake during frying. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate pretreatment methods to optimize the quality of fried potato chips. Ultrasound vacuum drying is particularly advantageous for producing chips with higher nutritional value, lower fat content, and reduced frying time, making it suitable for health-conscious consumers.