Valorization and Utilization of Food Wastes and By-Products: Recent Trends, Innovative Technologies and Sustainability Challenges

Abstract

[EN] The recovery of food by-products and waste is an issue of universal concern, as every year the food industry generates a huge amount of waste and by-products from a variety of sources. Food waste has a significant impact on food and nutrition security, food quality and safety, and environmental protection. Due to the large quantities of organic matter generated in a short period of time, these products represent a critical sustainability issue. The gradual depletion of natural resources and the increasing demand for food have led to the need to limit energy consumption, minimize costs and reduce waste by developing strategies for the recovery and utilization of food waste and by-products [1]. In fact, in most cases, these products have a high potential for recycling that can be achieved through the recovery of their bioactive compounds, plant protein extraction, transformation into powdered ingredients, or controlled fermentation. All of these actions will contribute to solve the challenges of climate change and food system sustainability, creating new opportunities and benefits for all stakeholders.