Blanching inactivates the
endogenous enzymes contained in the vegetables,
reduces microbial load, softens and shrinks product for
ease of packaging. Various recommendations on the
blanching medium, whether water or steam, the length of
the blanching period and temperatures to be used during
blanching have been presented
Water blanching temperatures at 70-100oC for 1-5 min
for leafy vegetables is recommended but it has a short
holding time and this may stimulate enzyme actions
instead of denaturing them. Blanching for a longer time
cooks the vegetables destroying the vitamins, minerals,
flavour and colour