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Antioxidants
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From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich...
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From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients and Products

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2026 | Viewed by 9619

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Ítala Marx

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
Interests: valorisation of olive oil industry by-products; polyphenols and their health-promoting properties; development of functional foods; emerging analytical methods for phenolic compound characterisation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Feliciano Priego-Capote

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
2. Chemistry Institute for Energy and Environment, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
3. Maimonides Institute of Biomedical Research, Reina Sofia University Hospital, University of Cordoba, Córdoba, Spain
4. CIBERFES, Consortium for Biomedical Research on Frailty and Healthy Ageing, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
Interests: metabolomics; mass spectrometry; bioactive compounds; agrifood residues; polyphenols

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As the food industry evolves toward more sustainable, circular, and health-conscious models, transforming agrifood waste into functional ingredients represents a powerful strategy with which to address environmental challenges and public health needs. Agrifood by-products—often discarded or undervalued—are rich sources of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, known for their antioxidant potential and capacity to reduce oxidative stress and neutralise reactive oxygen species (ROS).

This Special Issue aims to highlight recent scientific and technological advancements in the upcycling of agrifood by-products into antioxidant-rich ingredients with functional and nutraceutical potential. We encourage contributions that explore green and sustainable extraction technologies, novel analytical methods for the characterisation of bioactive compounds, and the development of innovative functional foods and nutraceuticals. We are particularly interested in studies investigating the modulation of oxidative stress and ROS-related pathways, as well as their role in personalised nutrition, metabolic regulation, and chronic disease prevention. Research on encapsulation techniques and innovative delivery systems to enhance the bioavailability and stability of antioxidant compounds is also welcome. Furthermore, studies assessing the safety, efficacy, shelf-life, and consumer acceptance of such formulations are highly encouraged.

This Special Issue welcomes original research articles and in-depth reviews that position agrifood wastes and by-products as key resources for health-promoting innovation.

Dr. Ítala Marx
Dr. Feliciano Priego-Capote
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antioxidants is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • antioxidant activity
  • oxidative stress
  • reactive oxygen species
  • polyphenols
  • bioactive compounds
  • functional ingredients
  • health-promoting formulations
  • agrifood waste
  • green extraction technologies
  • emerging analytical methods

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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23 pages, 1362 KB  
Article
Functional and Metabolomic Analyses of Chamomile Jelly Derived from Gelatin Capsule Waste with Inulin and Polydextrose as Prebiotic Sugar Substitutes
by Sasina Sanprasert, Anurak Uchuwittayakul, Pudthaya Kumnerdsiri, Lalitphan Kitsanayanyong, Anusorn Seubsai, Jaksuma Pongsetkul, Kantiya Petsong, Supatra Karnjanapratum, Chalalai Jaisan, Samart Sai-ut, Saroat Rawdkuen and Passakorn Kingwascharapong
Antioxidants 2025, 14(11), 1380; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14111380 - 19 Nov 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
Jelly is a popular confectionery, and research increasingly focuses on nutritionally enhanced formulations. In this study, gelatin capsule waste was valorized as a natural gelling base for chamomile jelly, providing an innovative approach to upcycling food-grade waste into functional products. The effects of [...] Read more.
Jelly is a popular confectionery, and research increasingly focuses on nutritionally enhanced formulations. In this study, gelatin capsule waste was valorized as a natural gelling base for chamomile jelly, providing an innovative approach to upcycling food-grade waste into functional products. The effects of replacing sugar with inulin (INU) or polydextrose (PDX) (25–100%) on chemical, physical, and sensory properties were investigated. Sugar replacement decreased carbohydrate content while increasing ash and fat, slightly increased turbidity, and reduced lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*). Gels with inulin and polydextrose exhibited higher gel strength (55.97–81.45 g) and hardness (9.77–10.20 N) than the control, whereas antioxidant activity remained largely unaffected. Among the formulations, 50% inulin (INU-50) received the highest consumer acceptance score (6.88 ± 1.05) and maintained stable quality during 21 days at 4 °C, with decreased free water content and increased gel strength. INU-50 jelly supplied essential nutrients, was cholesterol-free, and promoted Lactobacillus plantarum growth, supported by metabolomic analysis. Overall, this study demonstrates the potential of chamomile jelly with inulin substitution as a functional, health-promoting product and highlights a novel, sustainable approach to valorize gelatin capsule waste for modern health-conscious consumers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients and Products)
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22 pages, 3097 KB  
Article
Unlocking the Antioxidant Potential of Sea Cucumber Viscera: Pre-Treatment Modulates the Keap1-Nrf2 Pathway and Gut Microbiota to Attenuate Cold Stress-Induced Oxidative Damage
by Yang Gao, Xin Qiao, Xueyi Jing, Weiyue Li, Dongchao Zhang, Lei Pu, Jianbin Zhang, Hua Yang, Xingyao Pei and Liang Hong
Antioxidants 2025, 14(11), 1355; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14111355 - 13 Nov 2025
Viewed by 748
Abstract
The internal organs of sea cucumbers (SCV) are a byproduct of the seafood processing industry and hold untapped potential as a functional food. This study investigates the antioxidant capacity of SCV and its regulatory effects on the gut microbiota in a mouse model [...] Read more.
The internal organs of sea cucumbers (SCV) are a byproduct of the seafood processing industry and hold untapped potential as a functional food. This study investigates the antioxidant capacity of SCV and its regulatory effects on the gut microbiota in a mouse model of oxidative stress induced by chronic cold exposure. The results indicate that SCV possesses a rich nutritional composition, containing various components such as calcium, phosphorus, and polysaccharides, and exhibit strong scavenging activity against three types of free radicals in vitro: DPPH, OH−, and O2−. SCV significantly reduced MDA levels in both serum and liver, while activating the Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 pathway, leading to a significant decrease in the expression of HSP70 and HSP90 genes and a marked increase in Nrf2 gene expression, thereby alleviating oxidative damage. Histological analysis revealed that SCV alleviated liver damage, reducing hepatocellular vacuolization and inflammatory cell infiltration. Additionally, SCV modulated the diversity of the gut microbiota, increasing the abundance of Allobaculum, Turicibacter, Bifidobacterium, and Akkermansia, while enriching the synthesis pathway of vitamin B12 (PWY-7377). This study is the first to repurpose sea cucumber viscera waste into a functional food, demonstrating its dual mechanism of alleviating oxidative stress by activating the Keap1-Nrf2/HO-1 antioxidant pathway and regulating the gut microbiota. These findings offer an innovative strategy for the high-value utilization of agricultural by-products and the development of multifunctional health-promoting products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients and Products)
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27 pages, 3871 KB  
Article
A Cascade Approach to Valorizing Camellia oleifera Abel Shell: Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Coupled with Resin Purification for High-Efficiency Production of Multifunctional Polyphenols
by Jingyi Chen, Wei Li, Tao Liang, Yuting Yang, Rui Zhou, Rui Li, Daiyu Xie, Dayan Xiang, Shiling Feng, Tao Chen, Lijun Zhou and Chunbang Ding
Antioxidants 2025, 14(10), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14101192 - 29 Sep 2025
Viewed by 748
Abstract
Camellia oleifera Abel shell is an abundant lignocellulosic byproduct of the Chinese woody oil industry, which is currently underutilized. To achieve its high-value utilization, this study developed an innovative cascade process integrating ultrasound-assisted extraction and macroporous resin purification for the efficient preparation of [...] Read more.
Camellia oleifera Abel shell is an abundant lignocellulosic byproduct of the Chinese woody oil industry, which is currently underutilized. To achieve its high-value utilization, this study developed an innovative cascade process integrating ultrasound-assisted extraction and macroporous resin purification for the efficient preparation of purified polyphenols from the shell (P-CPCS). The major constituents were identified by quadrupole/Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (HPLC-Q-Exactive-MS: Biotech Pack Co., Ltd., Beijing, China) analysis. The optimized process significantly enhanced the polyphenol yield (40.05 ± 0.58 mg GAE/g dw) and purity (57.72%), surpassing conventional methods. P-CPCS exhibited exceptional multifunctional bioactivities, including potent antioxidant capacity (with low IC50 values against DPPH, ABTS+·, and ·OH radicals), effective tyrosinase inhibition (whitening effect), and significant bacteriostatic effects against various pathogens. Furthermore, P-CPCS notably suppressed the LPS-induced inflammatory response in RAW264.7 macrophages by reducing NO overproduction. This work highlights a novel and efficient strategy for upcycling agricultural waste into a high-performance natural antioxidant, positioning P-CPCS as a promising ingredient for applications in functional foods, cosmetics, and biomaterial stabilization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients and Products)
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Review

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20 pages, 343 KB  
Review
Valorization of Avocado (Persea americana) Peel and Seed: Functional Potential for Food and Health Applications
by Amanda Priscila Silva Nascimento, Maria Elita Martins Duarte, Ana Paula Trindade Rocha and Ana Novo Barros
Antioxidants 2025, 14(9), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14091032 - 22 Aug 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4498
Abstract
The growing emphasis on sustainability and circular economy strategies has driven increasing interest in the valorization of agro-industrial by-products. Among these, the peel and seed of avocado (Persea americana), typically discarded during processing, have emerged as promising sources of bioactive compounds, [...] Read more.
The growing emphasis on sustainability and circular economy strategies has driven increasing interest in the valorization of agro-industrial by-products. Among these, the peel and seed of avocado (Persea americana), typically discarded during processing, have emerged as promising sources of bioactive compounds, particularly phenolic constituents with recognized antioxidant capacity. This review critically examines the current scientific literature on the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and potential health benefits associated with avocado peel and seed. In addition, it explores recent technological advances in extraction methods and highlights the applicability of these by-products in the formulation of functional foods, nutraceuticals, and other health-related products. Challenges related to safety, bioavailability, and regulatory aspects are also discussed. By consolidating available evidence, this work supports the potential of avocado peel and seed as valuable functional ingredients and contributes to sustainable innovation in the food and health industries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients and Products)
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40 pages, 1885 KB  
Review
Potential Application of Plant By-Products in Biomedicine: From Current Knowledge to Future Opportunities
by Silvia Estarriaga-Navarro, Teresa Valls, Daniel Plano, Carmen Sanmartín and Nieves Goicoechea
Antioxidants 2025, 14(8), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14080942 - 31 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2417
Abstract
Plant by-products have gained significant attention due to their rich content in bioactive compounds, which exhibit promising antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor properties. In European countries, vegetable waste generation ranged from 35 to 78 kg per capita in 2022, highlighting both the scale of [...] Read more.
Plant by-products have gained significant attention due to their rich content in bioactive compounds, which exhibit promising antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antitumor properties. In European countries, vegetable waste generation ranged from 35 to 78 kg per capita in 2022, highlighting both the scale of the challenge and the potential for valorization. This review provides an overview of key studies investigating the potential of plant residues in biomedicine, highlighting their possible contents of antioxidant compounds, their antimicrobial and antitumor properties, as well as their applications in dermocosmetics and nutraceuticals. However, despite their potential, several challenges must be addressed, such as the standardization of extraction protocols, as bioactive compound profiles can vary with plant source, processing conditions, and storage methods. Effective segregation and storage protocols for household organic waste also require optimization to ensure the quality and usability of plant by-products in biomedicine. Emerging 4.0 technologies could help to identify suitable plant by-products for biomedicine, streamlining their selection process for high-value applications. Additionally, the transition from in vitro studies to clinical trials is hindered by gaps in the understanding of Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion (ADME) properties, as well as interaction and toxicity profiles. Nonetheless, environmental education and societal participation are crucial to enabling circular bioeconomy strategies and sustainable biomedical innovation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Waste to Health: Upcycling Agrifood By-Products into Functional Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients and Products)
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