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This study aimed to characterize the moisture desorption characteristics of fresh Corchorus olitorius leaves, comparatively analyse the isotherms with empirical and statistical models, and determine its optimal storage conditions for fresh state shelf stability. Fresh leaves were equilibrated in microclimates generated with saturated salt solutions, producing relative humidity (RH) levels from 7% to 89% at temperatures of 30°C, 40°C, and 50°C. Mass measurements were recorded until equilibrium moisture content (Meq) was reached. The experimental data were analysed using three empirical models, and Response Surface Methodology (RSM) statistical model. In addition, RSM was utilized to evaluate the effects of temperature and RH on with complimentary process optimization. The GAB model outperformed the LESPAM, Peleg and RSM statistical models, with R² values of 0.9825 at 30°C, 0.9966 at 40°C, and 0.9991 at 50°C. RSM model analysis identified an optimal storage condition at 30°C and 89.50% RH, predicting a  of 65.38% (d.b.) with a desirability score of 0.851. It is concluded that maintaining lower temperatures with high relative humidity significantly enhances moisture retention in C. olitorius to sustain freshness or shelf stability. These findings offer framework for postharvest handling, aiming to extend shelf life of C. olitorius for fresh state marketing.