Search Results (145)

Aquatic biomass—ranging from fish scales and crustacean shells to various algae species—offers an abundant, renewable source for carbon dot (CD) synthesis, aligning with circular economy principles. This review highlights recent studies for valorizing aquatic biomass into high-performance carbon-based nanomaterials—specifically aquatic biomass-based carbon dots (AB-CDs)—briefly summarizing green synthesis approaches (e.g., hydrothermal carbonization, pyrolysis, and microwave-assisted treatments) that minimize environmental impact. Subsequent sections highlight the varied applications of AB-CDs, particularly in biosensing (including the detection of marine biotoxins), environmental monitoring of water pollutants, and drug delivery systems. Physically AB-CDs show unique optical and physicochemical properties—tunable fluorescence, high quantum yields, enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and surface bio-functionalization—that make them ideal for a wide array of applications. Overall, the discussion underlines the significance of this approach; indeed, transforming aquatic biomass into carbon dots can contribute to sustainable nanotechnology, offering eco-friendly solutions in sensing, environmental monitoring, and therapeutics. Finally, current challenges and future research directions are discussed to give a perspective of the potential of AB-CDs; the final aim is their integration into multifunctional, real-time monitoring and therapeutic systems—for sustainable nanotechnology innovations. Full article

In light of pressing global nutritional needs, the valorization of agri-food waste constitutes a vital strategy for enhancing human health and nutrition, while simultaneously supporting planetary health. This integrated approach is increasingly indispensable within sustainable and equitable food systems. Recently, a sustainability-driven focus has shifted attention toward the valorization of the agri-food by-products as rich sources of bioactive compounds useful in preventing or treating chronic diseases. Agri-food by-products, often regarded as waste, actually hold great potential as they are rich in bioactive components, dietary fiber, and other beneficial nutrients from which innovative food ingredients, functional foods, and even therapeutic products are developed. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current advances in recovering and applying such compounds from agri-food waste, with a particular focus on their roles in human health, sustainable packaging, and circular economy strategies. Methods: This review critically synthesizes recent scientific literature on the extraction, characterization, and utilization of bioactive molecules from agri-food by-products. After careful analysis of the PubMed and Scopus databases, only English-language articles from the last 10 years were included in the final narrative review. The analysis also encompasses applications in the nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and food packaging sectors. Results: Emerging technologies have enabled the efficient and eco-friendly recovery of compounds such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and dietary fibers that demonstrate antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. These bioactive compounds support the development of functional foods and biodegradable packaging materials. Furthermore, these valorization strategies align with global health trends by promoting dietary supplements that counteract the effects of the Western diet and chronic diseases. Conclusions: Valorization of agri-food by-products offers a promising path toward sustainable development by reducing waste, enhancing public health, and driving innovation. This strategy not only minimizes waste and supports sustainability, but also promotes a more nutritious and resilient food system. Full article

Agricultural and industrial residues are increasingly recognized as valuable resources for sustainable innovation, offering significant potential for biotechnological applications. By integrating waste valorization into production systems, this approach aims to mitigate environmental impacts and enhance economic value across various sectors. The findings underline the critical need for further research and policy support to scale these solutions, advancing global sustainability goals through innovative resource management. In this perspective, this article reviews the utilization of key by-products, including coffee residues, sugarcane bagasse, whey, cassava wastewater (manipueira), and brewery waste, highlighting their transformation into high-value products such as biofuels, bioplastics, enzymes, bioactive compounds, and organic fertilizers. The discussion presented encompasses the challenges and opportunities in leveraging these residues, emphasizing the role of advanced technologies, intellectual property, and circular economy principles. Full article

This study evaluated and compared two encapsulation techniques—co-crystallization and ionic gelation—for stabilizing bioactive components derived from lavender distillation residues. Utilizing aqueous ethanol extraction (solid residues) and concentration (liquid residues), phenolic-rich extracts were incorporated into encapsulation matrices and processed under controlled conditions. Comprehensive characterization included encapsulation efficiency (Ef), antioxidant activity (AA), moisture content, hygroscopicity, dissolution time, bulk density, and color parameters (L*, a*, b*). Co-crystallization outperformed ionic gelation across most criteria, achieving significantly higher Ef (>150%) and superior functional properties such as lower moisture content (<0.5%), negative hygroscopicity (−6%), and faster dissolution (<60 s). These features suggested enhanced physicochemical stability and suitability for applications requiring long shelf life and rapid solubility. In contrast, extruded beads exhibited high moisture levels (94.0–95.4%) but allowed better control over morphological features. The work introduced a mild-processing approach applied innovatively to the valorization of lavender distillation waste through structurally stable phenolic delivery systems. By systematically benchmarking two distinct encapsulation strategies under equivalent formulation conditions, this study advanced current understanding in bioactive microencapsulation and offers new tools for developing functional ingredients from aromatic plant by-products. Full article

Honey processing is closely linked to water pollution due to the lack of a specific wastewater treatment. This study proposes a sustainable and innovative solution based on two sequential bioprocesses using a real effluent from an Argentine honey-exporting facility. In the initial stage, the honey wastewater was enriched with a non-Saccharomyces yeast (Candida ethanolica), isolated from the same effluent. Treatment with this yeast in a bioreactor nearly doubled the total sugar removal efficiency compared to the control (native flora). Subsequent clarification with diatomaceous earth reduced the optical density (91.6%) and COD (30.9%). In the second stage, secondary sewage effluent was added to the clarified effluent and inoculated with Chlorella vulgaris under different culture conditions. The best microalgae performance was observed under high light intensity and high inoculum concentration, achieving a fivefold increase in cell density, a specific growth rate of 0.752 d⁻¹, and a doubling time of 0.921 d. Although total sugar removal in this stage remained below 28%, cumulative COD removal reached 90% after nine days under both lighting conditions. This study presents the first integrated treatment approach for honey industry effluents using a native yeast–microalgae system, incorporating in situ effluent recycling and the potential for dual waste valorization. Full article

In recent decades, there has been a marked surge in the development of marine-by-product-derived ingredients for cosmetic applications, driven by the increasing demand for natural, sustainable, and high-performance formulations. Marine animal by-products, particularly those from fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, represent an abundant yet underutilized source of bioactive compounds with notable potential in cosmeceutical innovation. Generated as waste from the fishery and seafood-processing industries, these materials are rich in valuable bioactives, such as chitosan, collagen, peptides, amino acids, fatty acids, polar lipids, lipid-soluble vitamins, carotenoids, pigments, phenolics, and mineral-based substrates like hydroxyapatite. Marine by-product bioactives can be isolated via several extraction methods, and most importantly, green ones. These compounds exhibit a broad spectrum of skin-health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-wrinkle, anti-hyperpigmentation, and wound-healing properties. Moreover, applications extend beyond skincare to include hair, nail, and oral care. The present review provides a comprehensive analysis of bioactives obtained from marine mollusks, crustaceans, and fish by-products, emphasizing modern extraction technologies with a focus on green and sustainable approaches. It further explores their mechanisms of action and documented efficacy in cosmetic formulations. Finally, the review outlines current limitations and offers future perspectives for the industrial valorization of marine by-products in functional and environmentally-conscious cosmetic development. Full article

This study addresses the problem of agricultural waste utilization and nutrition for older adults by developing a food product based on a circular design approach. Pineapple core was used to produce a clean-label dietary powder without chemical or enzymatic treatment, relying on repeated rinsing and hot-air drying. The development process followed a structured analysis of physical, chemical, and sensory properties. The powder contained 83.46 g/100 g dietary fiber, 0° Brix sugar, pH 4.72, low water activity (aw < 0.45), and no detectable heavy metals or microbial contamination. Sensory evaluation by expert panelists confirmed that the product was acceptable in appearance, aroma, and texture, particularly for older adults. These results demonstrate the feasibility and safety of valorizing agri-waste into functional ingredients. The process was guided by the Transformative Circular Product Blueprint, which integrates clean-label processing, IoT-enabled solar drying, and decentralized production. This model supports traceability, low energy use, and adaptation at the community scale. This study contributes to sustainable food innovation and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production). Full article

The growing demand for functional and sustainable foods has driven food innovation, enhancing its nutritional value. This study aimed to develop a nutritious bread using local rye from the Trás-os-Montes region of Portugal and incorporating whey, a by-product of the dairy industry, as a replacement for water. Three bread formulations were tested: a traditional recipe with 37.5% rye flour and water (Control—CTR); the same recipe using whey instead of water (Rye Whey—RW); and a formulation with 100% local rye and whey replacing water (Full Rye Whey—FRW). Nutritional composition was assessed, including moisture, ash, protein, dietary fiber, sodium, potassium, lipids, and carbohydrates. Sensory analysis included both quantitative descriptive analysis and consumer acceptance testing. Microbiological quality was also evaluated. Whey-containing samples showed lower moisture and increased levels of ash, lipids, carbohydrates, and potassium. RW had the highest protein content (6.54 ± 0.28 g/100 g, p < 0.05), while FRW exhibited the highest dietary fiber (6.96 ± 0.15 g/100 g, p < 0.05). RW demonstrated a balanced nutritional and sensory profile, with high consumer acceptance. Overall, the combination of local rye and whey presents a promising strategy for producing nutritious bread while valorizing local agricultural resources and dairy by-products. These findings support sustainable food production practices and contribute to circular economy approaches. Full article

Olive oil and its derivatives, particularly polyphenol-rich extracts, are valued for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. Olive mill wastewater (OMWW), a byproduct of olive oil production, traditionally seen as an environmental pollutant, has emerged as a promising source of high-value dermatological ingredients. Key polyphenols such as hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and tyrosol exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and photoprotective effects. These compounds mitigate oxidative stress, prevent collagen degradation, modulate NF-κB and MAPK signaling, and promote cellular repair and regeneration. Skin health is increasingly recognized as crucial to overall well-being, driving interest in cosmeceuticals that combine cosmetic benefits with dermatological activity. This review examines the cosmeceutical and dermatological potential of OMWW, highlighting its incorporation into innovative topical formulations like oil-in-water nanoemulsions, liposomes, and microneedles that enhance skin penetration and bioavailability. Additionally, OMWW fractions have shown selective antiproliferative effects on melanoma cells, suggesting potential for skin cancer prevention. Valorization of OMWW through biorefinery processes aligns with circular-economy principles, converting agro-industrial waste into sustainable cosmeceutical ingredients. This approach not only meets consumer demand for natural, effective products, but also reduces the ecological footprint of olive oil production, offering a scalable, eco-friendly strategy for next-generation dermatological applications. Full article

The wine industry produces substantial amounts of organic waste, particularly in the form of dealcoholized grape pomace—the primary residual biomass that remains after the fermentation process and the extraction of alcohol from winery by-products. This study explores the potential of upcycling dealcoholized pomace, an often-overlooked by-product, into a sustainable platform for innovative bio-based materials. Using a multidisciplinary approach that combines materials science, biotechnology, and principles of the circular economy, we carefully examine the physical, chemical, and mechanical properties of dealcoholized pomace. Our research includes comprehensive analyses of its structural integrity, biodegradability, and potential applications, including biocomposites, eco-friendly packaging solutions, and other sustainable materials. The results of our study highlight not only the promising performance characteristics of dealcoholized pomace, such as its strength-to-weight ratio and biocompatibility, but also underscore its significant role in advancing waste valorization strategies. By effectively transforming waste into valuable resources, we contribute to the development of sustainable materials, thereby supporting a more circular economy within the wine industry and beyond. Full article

Augmented consumerism has propelled electronic innovation, leading to unprecedented growth in e-waste. Mishandling of e-waste poses environmental and human health hazards that necessitate a review of existing technologies and regulatory frameworks for effective e-waste management. Over the years, advancements in e-waste treatment technologies have addressed challenges uncovered in conventional e-waste treatment methods. This review comprehensively discusses valorization, regulations, and the environmental and health hazards imposed by e-waste mismanagement. The review adopted the novel VIRE framework to justify the research question and followed PRISMA analysis to filter the research basket. This study highlights that progressive policy frameworks are less efficient until inhibiting factors for successful implementation are addressed, especially in developing countries. The informal sector dominates in impeding the successful implementation of e-waste regulations, requiring integration with the formal sector as an initiative to reduce unlawful e-waste handling. Moreover, e-waste holds significant potential for economic value through precious metal recovery. An integrated approach of thermal techniques followed by bioleaching could be a cost-effective alternative for enhanced metal recovery from e-waste. There exists ample opportunity for further advancement in treatment technologies through the integration of discrete techniques, reframing regulatory frameworks to minimize unauthorized processing, and cooperative international agreements for collective action on sustainable e-waste management. Full article

Oilseed cakes, by-products of oil extraction, represent an underutilized resource with significant potential for sustainable food and pharmaceutical applications. This comprehensive review examines the valorization strategies for oilseed cakes, focusing on their rich protein (up to 56%) and fiber (up to 66%) content. We analyze both conventional and innovative extraction methods, highlighting the advantages of ultrasound-assisted (96.64% phenolic compound yield), enzymatic (82–83% protein recovery), and subcritical water extraction techniques in improving efficiency while reducing environmental impact. This review demonstrates diverse applications of oilseed cake components from gluten-free bakery products and plant-based meat alternatives to advanced nanoencapsulation systems for bioactive compounds. Each major oilseed type (soybean, rapeseed, sunflower and flaxseed) exhibits unique nutritional and functional properties that can be optimized through appropriate processing. Despite technological advances, challenges remain in scaling extraction methods and balancing yield with functionality. This paper identifies key research directions, including the development of integrated biorefinery approaches and the further exploration of health-promoting peptides and fibers. By addressing these challenges, oilseed cakes can play a crucial role in sustainable food systems and the circular economy, transforming agricultural by-products into high-value ingredients while reducing waste. Full article

The increasing demand for sustainable agriculture and environmental protection has prompted the exploration of innovative methods to valorize byproducts from rapeseed oil production. This review focuses on the application of microorganisms as a promising approach to transforming rapeseed de-oiling residues, such as cake and meal, into valuable products. This review discusses traditional and modern methods of rapeseed oil extraction, the composition and challenges posed by rapeseed byproducts, and the presence of antinutritional components such as glucosinolates, erucic acid, and phytic acid. Microbial applications, including the production of industrial enzymes, enhanced digestibility, and the neutralization of antinutritional factors, are examined as key solutions for waste valorization. Additionally, the role of microbial consortia and genetic modification in optimizing transformation processes is discussed. This review underscores the potential of microorganisms in creating eco-friendly, scalable technologies that contribute to resource efficiency and environmental sustainability in the agricultural and biotechnology sectors. Full article

The cosmetics industry is undergoing a transformative shift toward sustainability due to growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products and the urgent need to reduce environmental impact. Challenges exist at every phase of a product’s life cycle, requiring effective strategies to drive sustainability. Upcycling—the repurposing of byproduct waste materials or useless products—emerges as a powerful strategy to advance circularity, minimize waste, and conserve resources. Central to this process is sustainable ingredient sourcing, particularly the use of agro-food industry waste and byproducts, which often contain high-value bioactive compounds suitable for cosmetic applications. Beyond sourcing, other upcycling strategies can be applied across the cosmetic life cycle, such as optimizing production, valorizing post-consumer plastic waste, and reducing carbon footprint through innovative practices such as carbon dioxide capture and repurposing. This review explores the role of upcycling and other sustainable practices in reshaping the cosmetics industry, from product design to post-consumer use. It also underscores the importance of consumer education on sustainable consumption to promote responsible beauty practices. The findings highlight how upcycling and other sustainability approaches can significantly reduce the industry’s environmental footprint. For long-term sustainability, the study recommends continued innovation in waste valorization, resource optimization, and consumer education, ensuring a holistic approach to reducing cosmetics’ environmental footprint throughout their life cycle. Full article

Citrus peel, a significant by-product of fruit processing, represents a rich source of carotenoids with strong antioxidant and health-promoting properties. The present study evaluated two green extraction techniques, cloud point extraction (CPE) and supramolecular solvent (SUPRAS)-based extraction, for carotenoids recovered from citron, orange, and tangerine peels. Whereas SUPRAS methods rely on a supramolecular solvent made of water, ethanol, and octanoic acid, CPE methods use surfactants and water, and both show a high potential to extract lipophilic components. CPE demonstrated superior efficiency in extracting total carotenoids and enhancing antioxidant activity, with orange peel extracts showing the highest concentrations. CPE and SUPRAS extracts were subsequently encapsulated using freeze-drying with chickpea protein isolate, achieving high encapsulation efficiencies (82.40–88.97%). The use of encapsulation technology is an effective strategy to protect carotenoids from environmental stressors. Color, morphological, and FTIR analyses confirmed the successful encapsulation and retention of carotenoids. Environmental impact was assessed using the EcoScale tool, revealing excellent sustainability for CPE (92 points) and satisfactory performance for SUPRAS-based extraction (70 points). The use of Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) solvents and plant-derived encapsulation materials makes this method highly suitable for clean-label product development across the food, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries. In summary, the results point to a practical and sustainable approach to citrus waste valorization into valuable, health-promoting ingredients—supporting both circular economy goals and eco-friendly innovation. Full article