Search Results (472)

Background/Objectives: Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) are essential macronutrients for crop production. However, their losses throughout the agri-food system pose significant environmental and public health risks. India, with its diverse dietary cultures and large agricultural sector, presents a unique context for evaluating nutrient footprints. This study aims to provide the first sub-national assessment of food-related N and P footprints across Indian states and union territories, evaluating how vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets influence these footprints. Methods: This study employed a diet-sensitive bottom-up approach using national dietary consumption statistics from 2011–2012 to estimate food N and P footprints. The analysis incorporated regional dietary profiles and nutrient use efficiencies in crop production, along with food waste data, to quantify the affecting factors. Results: The national average food footprints were estimated at 13.11 kg-N capita⁻¹ year⁻¹ and 1.16 kg-P capita⁻¹ year⁻¹, with sub-national variation ranging from 52% to 144% of the national average for N, and 46% to 166% for P. Regions with prevalent non-vegetarian diets exhibited significantly higher footprints than those with vegetarian diets. Low nutrient use efficiencies (NUE 19%, PUE 31%) and consumer-level food waste (contributing nearly 4%) were also identified as key drivers of elevated footprints. Conclusions: The findings indicate that dietary choices, agricultural nutrient management, and food waste practices collectively contribute to the nutrient-related risks in India. Enhancing nutrient use efficiency, promoting plant-based diets, and improving waste management in culturally and regionally sensitive ways are crucial for reducing N and P losses. These findings provide actionable insights for the development of sustainable nutrition and agro-environmental policies. Full article

The agrifood sector produces considerable waste, offering opportunities for sustainable innovation. In the coffee industry, spent coffee grounds (SCG) can be valorized to generate eco-friendly nanomaterials such as nano zerovalent iron (nZVI), widely applied in soil and water remediation. In this study, green nZVIs were synthesized using SCG hydromethanolic extracts and FeCl₃, subsequently characterized, and assessed for cytotoxicity. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) was employed to identify hydroxycinnamic acids, caffeine, and trigonelline in the SCG extracts. Preliminary remediation assays were conducted with seven contaminants, with venlafaxine selected for detailed pH and kinetic studies. Characterization of nZVIs included SEM and EDS analyses, which revealed spherical nZVI particles (72–83 nm) composed of carbon (47%), oxygen (34%), and iron (16%). Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measurements indicated the presence of smaller particles (15–23 nm). Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) confirmed a residual mass of about 20% at 1400 °C. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed phenolic compound incorporation, while X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed an amorphous structure. The particles exhibited magnetic behavior and showed no cytotoxicity toward MRC-5 and U87 cell lines. Among the tested contaminants, venlafaxine displayed the highest removal efficiency in remediation tests. Compared with chemically synthesized nZVI, the green version exhibited enhanced stability, attributed to the presence of surface-bounded organic matter. Overall, this sustainable and cost-effective approach to produce nZVI from SCG provides an innovative method for waste valorization and environmental remediation. Full article

Agri-food residues have accumulated globally at unprecedented scales, generating environmental pressures and resource inefficiencies, a core problem addressed in this review, while simultaneously representing rich, underutilized reservoirs of health-promoting phytochemicals. This review synthesizes recent advances (2016–2025) in the green extraction, characterization, and biological validation of phytochemicals from plant-based residues, including polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids, and dietary fibers from key sources such as grape pomace, citrus peels, coffee silverskin, pomegranate peel, cereal brans, and tropical fruit by-products. Emphasis is placed on sustainable extraction methods: ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), pressurized liquid extraction (PLE), supercritical CO₂ extraction (SFE), and natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES), which enable efficient recovery while minimizing environmental impact. In vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies demonstrate that residue-derived compounds exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, metabolic-regulating, and prebiotic effects, contributing to health in general and gut microbiota modulation. Integrating these bioactives into functional foods and nutraceuticals supports sustainable nutrition and circular bioeconomy goals by reducing food waste and promoting health-oriented valorization. Regulatory advances, including approvals from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ingredients such as olive phenolics, citrus flavanones, and coffee cascara, further illustrate increasing translational readiness. The convergence of green chemistry, biorefinery design, and nutritional science positions agri-food residues as pivotal resources for future health-promoting and environmentally responsible diets. Remaining challenges include scaling cost-effective green processes, harmonizing life cycle assessment protocols, expanding toxicological datasets, and conducting longer-term clinical trials to support safe and evidence-based commercialization. Full article

The growing concern over the environmental impacts caused by plant agriwaste has intensified the search for sustainable alternatives in manufacturing processes. This review explores the valorization of agro-industrial residues, such as those derived from banana, coconut, and pineapple, for example. It highlights their potential to be converted into value-added products, particularly within the textile sectors. Emphasis is given to the environmental and economic benefits of reusing biomass rich in fibers and bioactive compounds while discussing key technological, regulatory, and logistical barriers that still limit large-scale applications. In parallel, it presents recent advances in processing technologies, such as biocomposites and biochar, and the integration of circular economy principles to promote resource efficiency and waste reduction. The analysis also underscores the importance of public policies and financial incentives to drive innovation and ensure the viability of sustainable practices in industrial contexts. The article proposes an ideal circular production flow model that contrasts current linear practices with a regenerative, bio-based alternative. By mapping current challenges and future perspectives, this review expects to contribute to the debate on environmental responsibility, green technologies, and the economic potential of plant residue reuse in manufacturing chains. Full article

Anaerobic digestion (AD) produces renewable energy but releases biogenic CO₂ and generates digestate requiring management. This paper evaluates four emerging pathways for CO₂ capture and reuse in AD systems: (1) in situ CO₂ conversion to CH₄ via microbial electrolysis cells (MECs), (2) hydrogenotrophic CO₂ methanation using green hydrogen, (3) enzymatic CO₂ capture coupled with autotrophic algae cultivation, and (4) digestate pyrolysis with syngas biomethanation. Each pathway is assessed in terms of technical feasibility, biocatalyst performance, system configuration, and key implementation challenges. Integrated scenarios demonstrate up to 98% CO₂ emission reduction, substantial bioenergy yield improvements, and enhanced nutrient and biomass recovery compared to conventional AD. MEC-based and hydrogenotrophic pathways show the highest energy efficiency, while algae-based systems provide added bioproduct valorization. The remaining limitations include cost, process integration, and scale-up. The study defines development priorities to advance zero-emission AD technologies for the agri-food and waste management sectors. Full article

The pomegranate, a widely consumed fruit, produces large quantities of waste, mainly from its peel. Pomegranate peels (PPs) contain high amounts of antioxidant compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins, which can be isolated from them and used for the benefit of humans and the environment. In the present work, a study of recovery of these compounds by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was carried out, whose parameters were optimized. The optimal results were a total polyphenol content of 195.55 mg gallic acid equivalents/g, total flavonoid content of 74.78 mg rutin equivalents/g, total anthocyanin content of 992.87 μg cyanidin 3-O-glucoside equivalents/g, and ascorbic acid content of 15.68 mg/g, while the antioxidant activity determined through ferric-reducing antioxidant power and DPPH assays was 2366.89 and 1755.17 μmol ascorbic acid equivalents/g, respectively. In parallel, an artificial intelligence (AI)-based framework was developed to model and predict antioxidant and phytochemical responses from UAE parameters. Six machine learning models were implemented on the experimental dataset, with the Random Forest (RF) regressor consistently achieving the best predictive accuracy. Partial dependence analysis revealed ethanol concentration as the dominant factor influencing outcomes, while ultrasonic power and extraction time exerted comparatively minor effects. Although dataset size limited model generalizability, the RF model reproduced experimental outcomes within experimental variability, underscoring its suitability for predictive extraction optimization. These findings demonstrate the complementary role of machine learning in accelerating antioxidant compound recovery research and its potential to guide future industrial-scale applications of AI-assisted extraction. Full article

The intensification of agricultural practices and the consequent dramatic decrease in soil organic matter has increased the use of organic fertilizer to recover soil fertility and plant productivity. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of three amendments obtained from the recycling of urban and agri-food wastes on rhizosphere microbial community, soil, and plant nutrient status. The experiment was carried out on rhizobox-grown, 1-year-old vines of Sangiovese (Vitis vinifera L.), grafted onto 110 Richter (V. berlandieri × V. rupestris) planted in April 2023. Twenty-four rhizoboxes were filled with soil collected from a field trial in which three types of amendments had been applied since 2019. In detail, the complete randomized experimental design (with four replications) compared the following treatments: (1) municipal organic waste compost (ACM), (2) agri-food organic waste compost (ACF), (3) defecation gypsum (GDD), and (4) a control that received 60 kg of N ha⁻¹ year⁻¹ (CK). The application of the amendments increased the soil concentration of total C, total N, and pH. The application of ACM increases soil K and Zn and the concentration of N and K in plant roots. The application of all the amendments increased leaf N concentration in comparison with CK, but only ACF increased leaf P. ACM was the most effective in promoting microbial biodiversity, increasing phyla like Bacillota, Pseudomonata, and Bacteroidota, including genra like Bacillus, Neobacillus, Paenibacillus, and Pseudomonas. ACF promoted Nitrosospherota and Chitinophaga, and GDD promoted Chloroflexota and Agrobacterium. Full article

Cationic polyelectrolytes, characterized by positively charged functional groups, play an essential role in industries ranging from food solutions, water treatment, medical, cosmetic, textiles and agriculture due to their electrostatic interactions, biocompatibility, and functional versatility. This paper critically examines the transition from petroleum-based synthetic polymers such as poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) and cationic polyacrylamides to sustainable natural alternatives derived from agri-forestry resources like starch derivatives and cellulose. Through a cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment, we highlight the superior renewability, biodegradability, and lower carbon footprint of bio-based polycations, despite challenges in agricultural sourcing and processing. This study examines cationization processes by comparing the environmental limitations of traditional chemical methods, such as significant waste production and limited scalability, with those of second-generation reactive extrusion (REX), which enables solvent-free and rapid modification. REX also allows for adjustable degrees of substitution and ensures uniform charge distribution, thereby enhancing overall functional performance. Groundbreaking research and optimization achieved through the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for parameter regulation and targeted mechanical energy management underscore REX’s strengths in precision engineering. By methodically addressing current limitations and articulating future advancements, this work advances sustainable innovation that contributes to a circular economy in materials science. Full article

Food loss and food waste (FLFW) constitute a major global challenge with profound economic, environmental, and social consequences. This study examines how businesses in Greece’s food service and retail sectors perceive and manage food waste, integrating the triple bottom line framework—economic, environmental, and social sustainability—as the guiding analytical lens. The research aims to: (1) analyze perceptions, practices, and barriers to food waste reduction among businesses; (2) explore the relationship between awareness, business policies, technological adoption, and consumer-oriented strategies; and (3) situate the Greek experience within broader European and international contexts to identify transferable lessons for policy and business innovation. Drawing on a structured survey of 250 industry representatives and comparative international evidence, the study finds that although awareness of food waste is widespread, it remains weakly connected to structured policies, technology adoption, or operational practices. Businesses recognize economic opportunities in waste reduction—such as supply chain optimization and near-expiry discounting—but these remain underexploited due to a lack of strong regulatory and financial incentives. The findings highlight that addressing food waste is not only an environmental and ethical necessity but also a strategic opportunity to enhance economic resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability within the agri-food sector. Full article

Corn stover (CS) is an abundant biomaterial, which is regularly rejected during corn harvesting. This biowaste is a typical lignocellulosic source rich in hydroxycinnamates, which are mainly represented by p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid. These polyphenols are largely bound onto the lignocellulosic complex and can be effectively liberated using alkaline catalysis. On this basis, the work described herein targeted at developing a high-performance process for producing hydroxycinnamate-enriched extracts, by deploying alkali-catalyzed hydrothermal and organosolv treatments. For this purpose, sodium carbonate was tested as a benign, natural alkali catalyst, along with the well-studied sodium hydroxide. The kinetic study demonstrated that both the alkali catalyst and the organic solvent (ethanol) may significantly affect polyphenol recovery, a fact further investigated by carrying out response surface optimization. The hydrothermal treatment was shown to be more efficacious than the organosolv one, with regard to total polyphenol recovery, while the sodium carbonate catalysis was less efficient compared to the sodium hydroxide one. Under optimized conditions, the hydrothermal treatment afforded 74.4 ± 3.6 mg gallic acid equivalents per g of dry CS mass. On the other hand, a more thorough investigation of the polyphenolic profile of the extracts obtained clearly demonstrated that the sodium hydroxide-catalyzed organosolv treatment provided almost 76 and 98% higher yields for p-coumaric and ferulic acid, respectively, compared to the hydrothermal treatment. Extract composition impacted the antioxidant activity, and it was revealed that the higher the p-coumaric acid/ferulic acid ratio, the stronger the antioxidant effect. It is proposed that the sodium hydroxide-catalyzed ethanol organosolv treatment of CS may be a particularly promising technique in a lignocellulose biorefinery frame, although improvements might be necessary to further increase treatment performance. Such a process might contribute to fully valorizing agricultural biowastes for the production of high value-added chemicals, in line with the “lignin first’ philosophy. Full article

The Special Issue “Unlocking the Potential of Agri-Food Waste for Innovative Applications and Bio-Based Materials” brings together recent advances and emerging strategies for the valorization of agri-food residues. This Editorial provides an overview of the contributions included in the Special Issue, highlighting innovative approaches that convert waste streams into valuable bio-based materials, chemicals, and products. The collected works demonstrate how hydrodynamic, chemical, biological, and catalytic processes can be integrated to achieve sustainable waste management and circular resource recovery. By summarizing the main findings and perspectives, this Editorial emphasizes the growing relevance of agri-food waste valorization within the framework of the circular bioeconomy and encourages further interdisciplinary collaboration to accelerate the transition toward sustainable production systems. Full article

A low-scale Food Waste Compost (FWC1), characterized by optimal physic-chemical parameters and high organic matter percentages, was used as a fertilizer and a bio-stimulant for vegetable plants. Groups of treated plants were inoculated with active juveniles of root-knot nematodes to detect the effect on plant defense. Optimal amounts of compost mixed with soil increased plant biomass 30% compared to untreated plants. Moreover, when plants were inoculated, treated roots contained about 50% less sedentary forms (SFs) of nematodes and a lower reproduction rate of the parasites than untreated plants. Although the performance of FWC1 as defense activator was similar to other microbiome-generating commercial formulations, the compost was found to be the best fertilizer in both un- and inoculated plants. Diffuse root colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) was observed after treatments with FWC1. FWC1 water extracts did not show any toxic effect on living nematode juveniles. Expression of the marker gene of immune response PR4b was found to be 3–5-fold higher in the roots of inoculated plants treated with FWC1 with respect to untreated plants, thus indicating that FWC1 primes plants against RKNs (root-knot nematodes, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid White) Chitw). Data are reported to associate immunization of plants with mycorrhization occurring in FWC1-treated plants. The proposed compost is indicated as having optimal performance both as a bio-fertilizer and a bio-stimulant. Full article

Valorizing agri-food waste through black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) bioconversion offers a promising path to enhance circular and sustainable food systems. This study used attributional Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the environmental performance of BSFL reared on six agro-industrial residue diets: tomato, pea, onion, chickpea, wheat, and liquid digestate. The Environmental Footprint 3.1 method was used to assess multiple impact categories. The rearing trials were conducted in a dedicated pilot plant (13.5 m × 2.5 m × 2.7 m) that can treat about 1.58 t of residue per cycle. From the results, BSFL biomass yields were similar across diets, with 12–15% bioconversion and 70–85% substrate reduction. BSFL protein had higher impacts than fishmeal and pea protein but was comparable to soybean meal. BSFL lipids had greater impacts than rapeseed, palm, and sunflower oils yet were similar to soybean oil for bioenergy from fat. Electricity use for climate control was the main hotspot (~85%). Scenario analysis showed that using residual heat for climate control and scaling up via optimization could cut impacts by over 80%. The findings demonstrate the potential for producing BSFL on a medium-to-large scale to enhance circularity in the agri-food sector. Full article

Education is pivotal in shaping a future geared toward climate neutrality and cultivating agents of change capable of addressing sustainability challenges. Educators’ understanding of food sustainability influences how effectively it is integrated into educational programs. This study examined the knowledge and understanding of food sustainability among nutrition and agri-food educators in Europe as part of a joint European-funded project (2023-1-IE01-KA220-VET-00156916: Train to Sustain). After ethical approval, a survey was distributed to educators in Ireland, Slovenia, Poland, and Italy. Data were analysed using qualitative and quantitative methods. Of the 123 educators who participated, 81% agreed they fully understood “food sustainability,” and 97% believed it is important to include it in education, yet only 62% reported that it was currently taught in their programs. This reveals a gap between perceived importance and implementation. The data also offered insights into how educators understand food sustainability across environmental, economic, social, cultural, and food security dimensions and how these are incorporated into teaching and awareness raising. Three themes were identified: (1) understanding sustainable food systems, (2) sustainable resource management, and (3) educating for food security and resilience. Participants emphasised environmentally friendly food practices, often linked to zero waste goals. The qualitative findings underscored the importance of societal access to healthy food, focusing on food security. However, references to economic and cultural aspects of sustainability were limited, suggesting a potential gap in educators’ understanding. This study highlights the need for educators to possess comprehensive knowledge of food sustainability to advance education and address climate and sustainability challenges. Full article

Food industry generates substantial waste, raising economic and environmental concerns. Green Chemistry (GC) highlights the extraction of nutritional and bioactive compounds as a key strategy for waste valorization, driving interest in sustainable methods to recover valuable compounds efficiently. This review evaluates the sustainability of widely used emerging extraction technologies—Microwave-, Ultrasound- and Enzyme-Assisted, as well as Supercritical Fluid Extraction—and their alignment with GC principles for agri-food waste valorization. It first outlines the principles, key parameters, and main advantages and limitations of each technique. Subsequently, sustainability is then assessed in selected studies using the Analytical GREEnness Metric Approach (AGREEprep). By calculating the greenness score (GS), this metric quantifies the adherence of extraction processes to sustainability standards. The analysis reveals variations within the same extraction method, influenced by solvent choice and operating conditions, as well as differences across the techniques, highlighting the importance of process design in achieving green and efficient valorization. Full article