Search Results (1,087)

Wine production is one of the most important agricultural activities worldwide, and generates significant amounts of organic by-products, particularly grape pomace. Traditionally, this was seen as waste, but currently, this residue has been reanalyzed from the perspective of the principles of the bioeconomy and circular economy, demonstrating its potential as a rich source of bioactive compounds with great potential for valorization. Its heterogeneous composition accumulates a variety of polyphenols, dietary fibers, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other secondary metabolites that confer important biological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. The chemical composition of grape pomace varies substantially according to variety, winemaking method, and extraction conditions, directly impacting its potential application. Extraction methods have progressed from traditional procedures to more advanced techniques such as ultrasound, supercritical fluids, and natural solvents, enabling the selective separation of high-value compounds. This review provides a comprehensive and critical overview of grape pomace valorization, emphasising its composition, green extraction and current industrial applications. In addition, regulatory frameworks and sustainability strategies supporting the integration of grape pomace into value-added production chains are discussed. Overall, grape pomace valorization supports waste reduction and the production of new functional products that balance economic efficiency and environmental responsibility. Full article

This study investigates the valorization of Nephelium lappaceum (rambutan) shell, an agro-industrial byproduct, as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds through comprehensive chemical and functional characterization. Phytochemical profiles were determined using spectrophotometrics and HPLC-DAD-MS/MS, revealing a composition dominated by ellagitannins (e.g., geraniin, corilagin, chebulagic acid) and ellagic acid derivatives, alongside significant levels of total phenolics (25,982.2 mg/100 g DW) and anthocyanins. The extract exhibited strong antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 8.02 μg/mL; TEAC = 5703.92 μmol TE/g), consistent with its high phenolic content. Biological evaluation demonstrated antimicrobial activity against a broad panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains, with greater efficacy against Gram-positive species (Staphylococcus aureus, MIC = 2.5 mg/mL). The extract also showed significant antibiofilm activity, achieving up to 93% inhibition. Antitumoral assays revealed selective cytotoxicity, particularly against HeLa cells (IC₅₀ = 260 μg/mL; TI = 11.5), indicating preferential effects on tumor over non-tumor cells. Importantly, hemolytic assays confirmed low toxicity, with negligible erythrocyte membrane disruption across tested concentrations. Overall, these findings highlight rambutan shell as a rich source of phenolic bioactives with multifunctional biological properties and favorable safety profile, supporting its potential application in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations within a circular economy framework. This study aligns with SDG 3 and SDG 9 by promoting the valorization of agro-industrial waste as a source of safe bioactive compounds for health-related applications. Full article

Recycled polypropylene (rPP) biocomposites represent a convergent strategy for plastic waste valorization and agro-industrial residue reutilization. This study quantifies tensile, flexural, and compressive performance (ASTM D638, D790, D695) of rPP biocomposites incorporating raw corn stover (Zea mays), banana pseudostem (Musa spp.), and barley residue (Hordeum vulgare) fibers at 10, 20, and 30 wt%, processed by single-screw extrusion and compression molding without compatibilizer. Two-way ANOVA with Tukey HSD post hoc analysis (α = 0.05) evaluated effects of fiber type and concentration. Tensile strength declined monotonically across all systems, from 24.9 MPa (neat rPP) to 7.9 MPa at 30 wt% banana fiber. Corn fiber exhibited exceptional tensile concentration stability (only −11% across the full range) and the best flexural retention at 10 wt% (36.6 MPa, 79% of neat rPP). A performance plateau was identified at 20 wt% under both tensile and flexural loading, beyond which further addition produced no significant reduction. Under compression, fiber type exerted its largest statistical effect (F = 81.231), all three systems were mutually distinguishable, and no plateau was observed. These results establish a loading-mode-resolved mechanical baseline for uncompatibilized rPP biocomposites, with corn fiber at 10–20 wt% as the most versatile formulation across all loading modes. Full article

The growth in açaí consumption and exports has increased waste generation, particularly from the seed, which accounts for approximately 85% of the fruit mass and is frequently discarded improperly, causing adverse environmental impacts. In this context, the valorization of açaí seeds as a raw material represents a promising and environmentally sustainable alternative. Recent studies indicate that the chemical composition of açaí seeds, characterized by high fiber content and antioxidant compounds, underlies bioactive properties with potential applications across multiple industrial sectors. Therefore, this review aims to provide an overview of the composition and industrial applications of açaí seeds, while identifying current gaps and challenges. Available evidence suggests that incorporating açaí seed flour or extracts into food formulations is promising, although the observed effects are concentration-dependent. In addition, seed-derived extracts have demonstrated biological activities associated with potential health benefits. Furthermore, açaí seeds have potential applications as biochar for soil remediation and as adsorbents in water and wastewater treatment. However, the use of this by-product in packaging materials and in the energy sector still requires further investigation to achieve industrial-scale feasibility. Overall, the valorization of açaí seeds supports more sustainable industrial practices and aligns with circular economy principles. Full article

Pomegranate peel, an abundant agro-industrial by-product, represents a sustainable source of bioactive polyphenols, particularly punicalagin, which has been associated with antioxidant and photoprotective potential. This study aimed to develop microemulsions (MEs) containing pomegranate peel extract for dermal delivery of punicalagin using biocompatible surfactant systems. Three MEs differing in surfactant–cosurfactant composition (ME-A, ME-P, and ME-E) were prepared. Each formulation solubilized 1% (w/w) of pomegranate peel extract and was evaluated regarding in vitro release behavior, skin permeation/retention, antioxidant activity, and in vitro sun protection factor (SPF). All investigated MEs provided sustained release of punicalagin (≈10–17% of the applied dose in 8 h). ME-A, based on an alkyl polyglucoside surfactant, showed a significantly higher cumulative release of punicalagin (60.4 µg/cm²) compared with ME-E and ME-P. In skin penetration/permeation studies, ME-A also exhibited the highest numerical total delivery of punicalagin (≈48.2 µg/cm² after 24 h), although differences among formulations were not statistically significant. All formulations demonstrated high antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay and measurable in vitro photoprotective potential, with SPF values ranging from approximately 11 to 14. Overall, pomegranate peel extract-loaded MEs showed potential as dermal delivery systems capable of improving solubilization and modulating skin delivery of punicalagin. The combination of agro-waste-derived bioactives with biocompatible surfactants highlights the potential of these systems as sustainable approaches for skincare formulations. Full article

The environmental impact of food waste and agro-industrial by-products has promoted the development of circular economy strategies for food applications. In this study, edible films were developed from biopolymers extracted from avocado peel and seeds (hemicellulose, pectin, lignin, and starch), incorporating ethyl lauroyl arginate (LAE^®) as an antifungal agent. The activity of LAE^® was evaluated against Colletotrichum gloeosporioides on inoculated avocados stored at 12 °C and 22 °C. Fruit shelf life was assessed through physiological, physicochemical and sensory parameters during cold storage and subsequent shelf life. Films containing 10% LAE^® exhibited strong antifungal activity, and their efficacy was higher at 12 °C than at 22 °C. Coated fruits exhibited a ripening delay of up to 2 days compared to controls. These findings highlight the potential use of avocado by-product-based LAE^® coatings as a sustainable strategy for preserve postharvest avocado quality. Full article

Mercury contamination in water poses severe environmental and health risks, requiring efficient and sustainable removal strategies. In this study, rice husk (RH), rice husk-derived materials, including rice ash (RHA), and Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41 (MCM-41) were evaluated as adsorbents for Hg(II) removal in aqueous systems. Among the tested materials, MCM-41 exhibited superior adsorption performance, achieving up to 98% Hg(II) removal under optimal conditions (pH 6.8, 3 g L⁻¹ of adsorbent, and a pollutant concentration of 0.90 mg L⁻¹). Adsorption followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model and was best described by the Langmuir isotherm, indicating monolayer adsorption. The maximum adsorption capacity reached 0.80 mg g⁻¹. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the process was spontaneous and exothermic, primarily governed by coordination interactions and hydrogen bonding with surface silanol groups. The adsorbent’s applicability was further assessed in distilled water, synthetic industrial wastewater, and river water. Although high removal efficiencies were maintained, a decrease was observed in complex matrices due to competition from coexisting ions. Reusability tests demonstrated that MCM-41 retained its performance over four adsorption cycles. Environmental safety was evaluated through ecotoxicological and microbiological assays. Daphnia magna exhibited high sensitivity to Hg(II) (EC₅₀ values of 0.0220 mg L⁻¹ at 24 h and 0.0158 mg L⁻¹ at 48 h), while treated samples showed improved germination indices of Lactuca sativa, particularly in distilled and river water. However, residual toxicity persisted in industrial wastewater matrices. Overall, rice husk-derived MCM-41 is a promising and sustainable adsorbent for Hg(II) removal, though further optimization is needed to mitigate residual toxicity in complex water matrices. Full article

Proteases, enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of peptide bonds in peptides and proteins, have widespread industrial applications, particularly in milk coagulation for cheese production. Microbial enzymes have been employed as alternatives to animal rennet, offering advantages such as cost-effectiveness, availability, and compliance with dietary, cultural, and religious requirements. Solid-state fermentation (SSF) is widely employed for microbial enzyme production because of its low operational costs, reduced water and energy requirements, high product concentrations, and the ability to utilize agro-industrial residues as low-cost substrates, thereby contributing to both process sustainability and waste valorization. We report the production and characterization of a novel milk-clotting protease produced by Trichoderma koningii FFT13. The protease was produced by SSF using wheat bran as the substrate, an agro-industrial residue. It was classified as a chymotrypsin-like serine protease and exhibited a specific caseinolytic activity of 9861 U/mg. The enzyme coagulated both reconstituted skim milk and pasteurized whole milk in the presence or absence of calcium. Coagulation was enhanced by increasing temperature, reaction time, enzyme concentration, and calcium levels. Scanning electron microscopy revealed destabilization of casein micelles, their progressive aggregation, and the formation of a well-defined gel network, confirming the effectiveness of the protease in milk coagulation. Therefore, these results demonstrate that the chymotrypsin-like protease from T. koningii is a promising enzyme for milk coagulation, with potential application in cheese production. The enzyme obtained constitutes an alternative to traditional coagulants, overcoming limitations related to animal rennet while potentially offering additional advantages in terms of process sustainability and industrial scalability. Full article

This focused review examines fermentation and fermentation-integrated microbial platforms that convert two regionally relevant substrate classes, Latin American agro-industrial residues and concentrated CO₂ streams, into high-value bioproducts. The review is not intended as a complete survey of all biomass valorization routes in Latin America. Instead, it evaluates platform–feedstock–product combinations with clear translational relevance for regional biorefineries, with emphasis on literature from 2020–2025 and on earlier benchmark studies only when they define current technical performance limits. Latin America and the Caribbean combine high-volume sugarcane, agave, coffee, citrus, banana, cacao, and tuber-processing residues with biogenic CO₂ from ethanol fermentation and industrial point sources from cement, lime, and oil-and-gas operations. The technical opportunity is therefore not residue abundance alone, but the rational coupling of residue chemistry, CO₂-source quality, locally isolated microbial strains, and process architectures that can be scaled under regional constraints. We compare phototrophic CO₂-fixing modules based on cyanobacteria and microalgae, chemoautotrophic gas fermentation using Cupriavidus necator and related systems, heterotrophic yeast platforms including Rhodotorula spp. and Yarrowia lipolytica, and bacterial platforms for PHAs, bacterial cellulose, and organic acids. The core technical analysis focuses on substrate conditioning, hydrolysate inhibition, oxygen- and gas-transfer constraints, light delivery, C/N control, mixed-sugar utilization, metabolic engineering, reactor configuration, downstream processing, and quantitative reporting metrics. One fermentation-integrated laboratory case study—the Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803–Rhodotorula mucilaginosa UANL-001L CO₂-to-carotenoid relay—and one explicitly defined non-fermentative boundary case on peel-extract-derived coating films are used to illustrate two different aspects of regional biorefinery design: dual-feedstock microbial conversion and low-CapEx product-fit decisions for agro-industrial residues. We conclude that Latin America’s strongest near-term position is in technically disciplined, product-specific biorefineries that integrate local feedstock chemistry with engineered or locally adapted chassis, rather than in generic biomass-to-product claims. Full article

Although solid-state fermentation (SSF) has long been used in food production in various traditional contexts, it is now emerging as a particularly promising strategy for the development of functional food ingredients from plant materials and agro-industrial side streams. This review examines recent advances in the application of SSF to enhance the nutritional, functional, sensory, and technological properties of food matrices. Current evidence indicates that SSF can increase the bioactive potential of plant-based substrates by promoting the release and biotransformation of phenolic compounds, while also improving antioxidant capacity, protein digestibility, and techno-functional performance. In addition, the process may support the formation of food-relevant metabolites, including vitamins, peptides, organic acids, and other secondary compounds, while reducing selected antinutritional, allergenic, and undesirable constituents. These compositional changes are often accompanied by modifications in aroma, volatile profiles, visual attributes, and, more recently, gut microbiota-related effects. Attention is given to the use of fungal-based processes for the valorization of cereals, legumes, fruit by-products, and other underutilized substrates. The review also addresses the growing industrial interest in SSF, especially in relation to mycelium-based foods, alternative proteins, functional ingredients, and feed applications. Despite its clear potential, the broader implementation of SSF will require further research and development to support its effective translation into food applications. Full article

The present work investigates the chemical composition of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) cake obtained as a by-product of cold-pressed oil extraction. The aim of the study is to assess its potential for further utilization and secondary applications. By applying a combination of analytical techniques, including chemical analysis, Soxhlet extraction, ICP-OES, ICP-MS, FTIR, and SEM-EDS, the material was characterized as a rich organic matrix with a significant residual fat content (approximately 20%), proteins, and essential mineral elements such as K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, and P, while containing low levels of toxic elements. Since cold pressing preserves residual bioactive compounds, and considering the high content of essential elements, black cumin cake represents a promising ingredient for food supplements. In addition, its porous surface structure observed by SEM-EDS, together with the functional groups identified by FTIR analysis, suggests potential sorption properties. These findings position black cumin cake as a promising resource within the framework of sustainable agro-industrial waste valorization strategies. Full article

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) is an essential phytohormone that regulates several tropic responses in plants and serves as signaling molecule in plant–bacteria interactions. In this study, a high indolic-compound-producing actinobacterial strain, designated OP15, was isolated from the roots of Opuntia ficus-indica as an endophyte and identified as a member of the Streptomyces genus based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Synthetic dairy wastewater (SDWW) was used as a low-cost fermentation substrate for the production of IAA-equivalent compounds, providing a sustainable approach that links microbial metabolite production with agro-industrial waste valorization. Fermentation conditions were optimized using a Box–Behnken design coupled with response surface methodology. To address model overfitting, a backward elimination procedure was applied, yielding a reduced statistical model (R² = 0.658, adjusted R² = 0.628, predicted R² = 0.583) with adequate predictive performance. Under the optimized conditions (1 g/L NaCl, 1 g/L L-tryptophan, 100% SDWW, 7.5% inoculum, 4.5 days), the model predicted a maximum response of 278.2 µg/mL (95% prediction interval: 230.0–326.4 µg/mL). Experimental validation yielded a response of 296.838 µg/mL, falling within the prediction interval and confirming the model’s reliability within the experimental domain. This agreement supports the model’s utility for process optimization within the experimental domain. In addition, treatment of wheat seeds with the culture supernatant of OP15 isolate significantly (p < 0.05) promoted root length and root dry weight. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of the OP15 strain for the sustainable production of IAA-equivalent compounds using SDWW and support the valorization of dairy effluents as low-cost substrates for biotechnological applications. Full article

This study investigates the ternary co-pyrolysis of Soma lignite (SL), a low-rank Turkish coal with high ash content, with two agricultural residues: pectin-rich sugar beet pulp (SBP) and lignin-rich peanut shell (PS). The primary objective is to clarify how biomass structure and blend composition control synergistic interactions, and how co-pyrolysis can upgrade the fuel properties of a low-quality coal while valorizing agro-industrial waste. Four SL:SBP:PS blends (80:10:10, 60:20:20, 40:30:30, and 20:40:40 wt.%) were tested by non-isothermal thermogravimetric analysis at 10 °C min⁻¹ under nitrogen. Differential thermogravimetric curves were deconvolved into four pseudo-components representing pectin/hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin/early coal, and main coal/mineral fractions. Mass-based deviation indices ($\mathrm{\Delta }W$) and rate-based deviations ($\mathrm{\Psi }$) from the additive prediction were calculated in three temperature regions to detect synergy and antagonism. The results demonstrate that interactions are strongly composition-dependent. The 40:30:30 blend exhibits the most pronounced synergistic enhancement, with average $\mathrm{\Delta }W$ values of approximately −0.94 wt.% and −1.05 wt.% in the 350–500 °C and 500–650 °C ranges, respectively, while the 60:20:20 blend shows antagonistic behavior across all regions. For the 40:30:30 blend, the calculated higher heating value increases from 11.21 to 14.74 MJkg⁻¹, reflecting a gradual upgrading of the feed-mixture composition by biomass loading. Overall, the findings indicate that combining a pectin-rich, fast-devolatilising biomass with a lignin-rich, slower-decomposing biomass at an intermediate coal loading can shift mass loss to lower temperatures. This combination also produces measurable non-additive behaviour within the experimental noise level. In addition, it improves several feed-mixture indicators that are relevant to sustainable energy recovery from lignite-dominated regions. Full article

In this study, we investigated the possibility of partially substituting wheat flour in bread-making technology with a by-product (rapeseed meal) obtained after pressing of rapeseed seeds used to obtain edible oil. The research was conducted within the context of sustainable food systems and circular bioeconomy strategies. Experiments were conducted using substitution rates of 10%, 20%, and 30% (RMW1, RMW2, and RMW3), as well as their corresponding breads (RMWB1, RMWB2, and RMWB3). The results reveal a notable improvement in the nutritional profile, correlated with the increase in RM. Indeed, significant increases were observed in protein content (up to 16.64% in flours and 14.19% in breads), fat content (up to 8.72% and 7.89%, respectively), and ash content (up to 2.30% and 2.85%, respectively), while carbohydrates decreased (down to 63.72 g/100 g in flours and 45.76 g/100 g in breads). Furthermore, the phytochemical profile was significantly enhanced, as reflected by the increased antioxidant capacity and elevated total polyphenol concentration, highlighting the functional potential of RM-enriched products. Water absorption increased from 55% to 61%, accompanied by a decrease in dough stability, suggesting modifications in the gluten network. Mixolab analyses indicated reduced viscosity and starch retrogradation, while physical bread properties, including porosity, elasticity, and H/D ratio, decreased with increasing substitution levels. Sensory evaluation revealed that a 10% RM substitution ensured optimal acceptability, whereas higher levels (30%) resulted in significant quality deterioration. From a sustainability perspective, the incorporation of RM contributes to the valorization of agro-industrial by-products, reducing waste streams and promoting resource efficiency. Partial substitution of wheat flour also has the potential to decrease reliance on primary agricultural inputs, thereby lowering the environmental footprint associated with cereal production. Additionally, the improved antioxidant profile may enhance product stability and shelf life, contributing to food loss reduction. In conclusion, an incorporation level of up to 20% provided the most suitable compromise between improved nutritional value, functional and technological properties, consumer acceptability, and sustainability considerations, thereby supporting the formulation of novel bakery products consistent with circular bioeconomy concepts and sustainable dietary approaches. Full article

Agricultural residues can be used as substrate components for seedling production, contributing to cost reduction and waste management. This study evaluated the growth, nutritional composition, and physiological performance of Euterpe edulis seedlings cultivated under greenhouse conditions. It is one of the first to integrate morphological, nutritional, and physiological indicators to assess agro-industrial residues as substrate components. The experiment followed a randomized block design with five substrates and four replicates: commercial substrate; 100% crushed açaí and juçara seeds; 50% soil + 50% cattle manure; 50% soil + 50% crushed seeds; and 33.3% soil + 33.3% cattle manure + 33.3% crushed seeds. Plant height was not affected by substrate type, while stem diameter and leaflet length were greater in the commercial substrate. Root length was higher in the commercial substrate; however, root dry mass, surface area, and volume did not differ among treatments. Leaf number, leaflet width, leaf area, and Dickson quality index were similar across substrates, indicating comparable seedling quality. The shoot-to-root ratio was higher in seedlings grown in the substrate composed of 100% crushed seeds. Higher nitrogen concentration was observed in seedlings grown in substrates based on crushed residues, without differences in biomass, indicating the absence of a dilution effect. No statistical differences were observed for the remaining nutrients. Physiological parameters indicated adequate photosynthetic performance across treatments. Substrates based on crushed açaí and juçara residues showed comparable performance to the commercial substrate, representing a viable and sustainable alternative for E. edulis seedling production. Full article