Sustainable Recovery of Bioactive Compounds from Food Industry By-Products

Dear Colleagues,

The agri-food industry generates substantial amounts of by-products and residues, which, if not properly managed, contribute to environmental pollution and economic losses. In recent years, the concept of waste valorization has gained significant attention as a sustainable strategy to reduce food waste while obtaining high-value bioactive compounds with potential applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors. These by-products often contain valuable phytochemicals, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, and neuroprotective compounds, which can contribute to disease prevention and promote human health. To efficiently recover these bioactives, the development and optimization of advanced, environmentally friendly extraction technologies have become essential. Emerging techniques such as ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, pressurized liquid extraction, and supercritical fluid extraction offer significant advantages in terms of efficiency, selectivity, and reduced environmental impact. Additionally, the use of green solvents, including deep eutectic solvents (DESs), natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDESs), supramolecular solvents (SUPRASs), and bio-based solvents, represents a promising alternative to conventional organic solvents, aligning with the principles of green chemistry and the circular bioeconomy.

This Special Issue welcomes manuscripts addressing innovative, sustainable extraction processes; the characterization of bioactive compounds from food industry by-products; and their application in functional foods, nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetic products.

Dr. Gloria Domínguez-Rodríguez
Dr. José Ignacio Alonso-Esteban
Dr. Stefania Pagliari
Guest Editors

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