Effect of Drying Temperature on Proximate Composition and Viability of Maize Dried in a Solar Biomass Hybrid Dryer

Maize is an important cereal produced for food and feed its nutritional composition viability could be affected when subjected to inappropriate drying conditions. This study investigated the effects of temperature on proximate maize grains dried at different levels in a solar biomass hybrid dryer. Proximate analysis was performed using standard A.O.A.C. methods. Germination test done sterilized Petri–dishes lined with filter papers determine grains. Overall mean temperature, 43.63 ± 8.6 ˚C dryer 9 higher than average ambient temperature. The moisture content (MC) reduced from 17 % 11 (w.b.) 8 h rate 0.64 %/h. overall efficiency 12.7 compared 5.7 open-sun process. (avg. 95%) favourably sun-dried (96%). results show that, had no adverse effect adoption dryers use by smallholder farmers encouraged due suitability providing viable option drying.