Drying is a mass transfer process consisting of the removal of water or another solvent by evaporation from a solid, semi-solid or liquid. This process is often used as a final production step before selling or packaging products. Food drying is a method of food preservation in which food is dried (dehydrated or desiccated). Drying inhibits the growth of bacteria, yeasts, and mold through the removal of water. Dehydration has been used widely for this purpose since ancient times; the earliest known practice is 12,000 B.C. by inhabitants of the modern Middle East and Asia regions. Drying is a simple method for preserving food. Dried foods make great healthy and tasty snacks. They are good for lunches, travel, backpacking, hiking, and camping plus many other activities. Most types of foods can be dried. Drying is an ancient method of food preservation.