Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Dairy starter cultures need to be preserved with high viability.
Different drying methods have different effects.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
No specific formula.
Need to know the methods for starter culture preservation.
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Freeze-drying (lyophilization) is cost-effective.
It provides highest cell viability and purity.
Spray drying causes heat damage.
Vacuum drying is less effective.
Sun drying is not suitable.
Thus, freeze-drying is the best method.
Step 4: Final Answer:
Freeze-drying is cost-effective with highest viability and purity.
Hence, the correct option is (A).
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