A verification study was conducted on the different techniques of drying split round scad (Decapterus sp.). The efficiency of using the cabinet-type dehydrator, the mobile solar dryer and the traditional sun-drying (as control) was evaluated based on drying time, product quality and financial requirements.
The use of the cabinet-type dehydrator was found to yield the best quality product (based on the organoleptic and microbial tests) and requires the shortest drying time of seven hours. Drying time with the solar dryer and that of sun drying were practically the same (9 to 11 hours). However, field trials conducted in coastal areas revealed that using the solar dryer is efficient with a drying of from eight to 10 hours. The solar dryer still needs improvement for use in urban places such as Metro Manila.