Powered by OpenAIRE graph
Found an issue? Give us feedback
image/svg+xml art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos Open Access logo, converted into svg, designed by PLoS. This version with transparent background. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Open_Access_logo_PLoS_white.svg art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos http://www.plos.org/ ZENODOarrow_drop_down
image/svg+xml art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos Open Access logo, converted into svg, designed by PLoS. This version with transparent background. http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Open_Access_logo_PLoS_white.svg art designer at PLoS, modified by Wikipedia users Nina, Beao, JakobVoss, and AnonMoos http://www.plos.org/
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: ZENODO
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
ZENODO
Article . 2025
License: CC BY
Data sources: Datacite
versions View all 2 versions
addClaim

Unlocking the Hidden Value of Fruit Wastes

Authors: Pal, Nabonita; Mitra, Abhijit;

Unlocking the Hidden Value of Fruit Wastes

Abstract

The present article highlights innovative strategies for transforming fruit by-products into valuable resources,fostering a circular economy while reducing environmental impact. Fruits, with their diverse nutritional andeconomic value, generate vast amounts of waste, including peels, seeds, pulp, and cores, during processing.Traditionally discarded or used as low-value animal feed, these by-products are now being reimagined throughadvancements in food technology, biotechnology, and sustainable manufacturing. By converting fruit wasteinto high-value products such as bio-fuels, cosmetics, biodegradable packaging, health supplements, andtextiles, industries are addressing critical environmental challenges while creating economic opportunities.Globally, the fruit processing sector produces millions of tonnes of organic waste annually. Examples ofsuccessful waste valorisation include mango seed butter, which is used in natural skincare products due to itsmoisturizing and antioxidant properties; citrus peel essential oils, which serve as natural cleaning agents,perfumes, and therapeutic oils; and apple pomace flour, which is rich in fiber and antioxidants, making it idealfor gluten-free and health-focused food products. Similarly, pineapple peels are utilized in eco-friendly soapproduction, while banana fibres are repurposed into sustainable textiles like Abaca, renowned for its durabilityand biodegradability. Beyond food and personal care, fruit waste is increasingly contributing to the bio-energyand bio-materials sectors. Grape pomace is converted into biochar or bio-fuels, while avocado pits in Mexicoare being innovatively transformed into biodegradable cutlery, providing a sustainable alternative to single-useplastics. Moreover, pomegranate peels are processed into natural dyes and antioxidant-rich extracts forpharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. These initiatives not only minimize landfill waste but also reducegreenhouse gas emissions associated with decomposing organic matter. Economically, fruit waste valorisationoffers a multi-dimensional advantage. It lowers waste disposal costs for processing units, creates raw materialfor multiple industries, and generates employment opportunities, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.Additionally, it aligns with consumer demand for natural, eco-friendly, and sustainable products, expandingglobal market potential. This paradigm shift demonstrates that fruit by-products, often considered waste, canbe transformed into valuable commodities with wide-ranging applications in food, cosmetics, bio-energy, andfashion.

Related Organizations
  • BIP!
    Impact byBIP!
    selected citations
    These citations are derived from selected sources.
    This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
    0
    popularity
    This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
    Average
    influence
    This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
    Average
    impulse
    This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
    Average
Powered by OpenAIRE graph
Found an issue? Give us feedback
selected citations
These citations are derived from selected sources.
This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Citations provided by BIP!
popularity
This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Popularity provided by BIP!
influence
This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically).
BIP!Influence provided by BIP!
impulse
This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network.
BIP!Impulse provided by BIP!
0
Average
Average
Average
Green