Comparative Review of Drying Methods for Preserving Agriculturally Relevant Microorganisms: Viability, Scalability, and Economic Feasibility

Résumé fourni par la source

Drying technologies for preserving microorganisms used in agrifood applications are critically reviewed, with emphasis on biofertilizers and biopesticides requiring long‐term stability. Key stages affecting viability are analyzed, including microbial growth conditions, protectant selection, drying processes, storage, and rehydration. Major techniques—freeze‐drying, spray‐drying, fluidized bed drying, and electrospinning—are compared in terms of efficiency, scalability, cost, and impact on cell survival. Fluidized beds show high viability retention and reduced processing costs, while freeze‐drying ensures stability but requires optimization through cryoprotectants and encapsulation. Spray‐drying offers economic advantages but can induce thermal stress, and electrospinning emerges as a promising approach for controlled release and enhanced stability. Evidence from recent studies indicates that formulation strategies and process parameters strongly influence microbial survival and shelf life. Despite technological advances, limited data exist on long‐term storage performance and field‐scale validation. A preliminary economic analysis suggests that optimized fluidized bed drying can deliver Bradyrhizobium inoculants to farmers at approximately USD 2 ha −1 , with benefit‐to‐cost ratios exceeding 7:1 at conservative yield gains. Further research is required to optimize formulations, improve viability during storage and distribution, validate performance under open‐field conditions, and support large‐scale agricultural implementation.

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