Elaboración de un proceso tecnológico para la producción de jugo de naranja en polvo.

Abstract

The objective of this research is to evaluate a technological process for the production of orange powder by identifying variables and parameters through laboratory tests, which were later simulated in a software process in order to analyze its technical and economic pre-feasibility. Two varieties of orange were characterized by analyzing their physicochemical properties, selecting the Valencia variety with 61,5% also, the fluid was clarified and encapsulated for atomization. By means of experimental treatments and statistical analysis, an excellent yield was determined with 76.7 % and a humidity of 0.763% with a temperature of 140°C and a concentration of 7% w/w. The physical, chemical and microbiological analysis of the product shows, °Brix; 9.6, ph; 3.61, total coliforms, fecal coliforms, Ecoli presents a value of 0 UFC/g, molds and yeasts the value is < 10 UPC/g, being within the permissible range of the NTE INEN 2471. The comparison with an existing and marketed product determined that orange powder is suitable for preservation and consumption. The simulation was conducted based on 5 (TM) that corresponds to 25% of unused production in the marketing of oranges in the Canton of Caluma, taking into account that the total production is 22.482 tm, three sections were defined: preparation of the fruit, juice production and production of powder, which have unitary operations specific to each section. From a technical point of view, the project is totally viable, since the sub-processes are feasible to implement and the final product complies with the necessary requirements for its commercialization and consumption. The process is economically feasible, however the system in 15 years generates a NPV (Net Present Value) of 744.000USD and an IRR (Internal Rate of Return) of 10% that despite being positive might not be attractive for investors, considering that a total capital investment ($2.878.000USD) and the operation cost ($4.814.762USD) will be required.