Evaluation of potential methods to minimize solid loss during the manufacture of coconut milk powder

A coconut milk powder manufacturing plant encountered about 4.7% solid loss. This study was undertaken to identify measures to minimize this solid loss. Solid losses through different modes were quantified. Sample size for determination of total solid in coconut milk and conductivity cut-off point of the drain plate were optimized. Solid losses (kg run^-1) through the dryer (2,954.6±106.2), drain plate (2,575.1±734.1) and due to over estimation of total solid in coconut milk (394.7±69.1) accounted for 46.5, 40.5 and 6.2% of the total solid loss, respectively. About 63% reduction in solid loss through the drain plate was evident when the conductivity cut-off point reduced from 4 to 1 mS cm-1. It was also revealed 92% reduction in over estimation of total solid when the sample size of coconut milk reduced from 2.0 to 1.5 g. In conclusion, sample size of 1.5 g for rapid total solid determination and 1 mS cm-1 conductivity cut-off point for the drain plate are recommended to minimize solid loss of this plant.