Freeze drying and lyophilization are two terms that are often used interchangeably because they refer to the same process. Both terms describe a method of preserving perishable materials, such as food or pharmaceuticals, by removing moisture through a process of freezing and sublimation.
The term “freeze drying” is more commonly used in industrial and scientific contexts, while “lyophilization” is often used in pharmaceutical and medical applications. Both terms describe the same process of removing moisture through freezing and sublimation to preserve materials.
In both freeze drying and lyophilization, the primary goal is to remove moisture from the material while maintaining its structure, integrity, and functional properties. This dehydration process offers several advantages, including extended shelf life, reduced weight and volume for storage and transportation, and the retention of product quality without the need for preservatives. Consequently, these techniques find widespread use in various industries, including sample preservation, manufacturing, and biotech.