Consumers’ Perception of Dried Onion and Okra Using Load Adaptive Drying Technology in Nsukka Urban, Nigeria

Abstract

The study determined consumers’ perception of onions and okra dried with load adaptive drying technology (LADT). Random sampling technique was used to select equal number of adult male, adult female, young men and young women as respondents. Structured interview schedule was used to elicit data from the respondents, while, percentage, mean score and multiple linear regression were used to analyze the data. All the respondents had a favourable perception of Onions and Okra dried with LADT. Willingness to use was dependent on taste, aroma and texture in the case of Onions. For Okra, willingness to use was dependent on colour and texture. There was a general willingness to use the products dried with the load adaptive technology, it was, therefore, necessary for the Centre for Lion Gadgets and Technologies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (CLGT) to collaborate with agricultural extension agencies to disseminate the product to farmers and processors for use. Keywords: photovoltaic, dryer, load adaptive, consumers, perception, okra, onion