Introduction:In this research, the hygroscopic behavior of cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum) powder containing 40% maltodextrin was studied via the moisture adsorption and desorption isotherms at 25°C. Methods:The experimental sorption data of the cupuassu powder were fitted using the Halsey, Henderson, Oswin, GAB and Peleg models. In addition, the powder morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy. Results:Moisture sorption isotherms curves showed type III behavior, typical of foods rich in soluble components, such as sugars, present in the samples. The adsorption curve indicated that the product requires greater attention when stored and handled in environments with relative humidity above 50%. The microbiological stability of the product is assured up to 11.5% moisture content. Conclusion:During the product storage, it is recommended to use packaging with water vapor and air impermeability, due to the presence of porous microspheres that affect the protection of the active material and facilitate the moisture gain. Among the models evaluated, the Peleg and GAB models presented good suitability on predicting the product's sorption isotherms.

A central composite design was used to optimize the spray drying process for developing cupuassu (Theobroma grandiflorum) powder. The influence of inlet air temperature (T inlet ) (120-180 °C), feeding rate (F feed ) (3-12 mL/min) and maltodextrin concentration (C malto ) (10-40%) on the properties of moisture, water activity (a w ), hygroscopicity, water solubility index (WSI), ascorbic acid (AA) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) were analyzed using response surface methodology and desirability function. In addition, powder morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy. The T inlet and F feed parameters significantly influenced the moisture and a w , while the other responses (hygroscopicity, WSI, AA and TPC) were influenced by the T inlet and C malto parameters. The highest C malto and intermediate T inlet and F feed levels showed the best morphological characteristics (particles integrity, spheres shapes and smooth surfaces). The desirability function defined the optimal process conditions as T inlet = 150 °C, F feed = 7.5 mL/min and C malto = 40%.

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