Valorisation of citrus processing waste: A review

Abstract

This study analyses the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of citrus peel waste and discusses the systems for its valorisation. Citrus peel waste (CPW) is the main residue of the citrus processing industries and is characterised by a seasonal production (which often requires biomass storage) as well as high water content and concentration of essential oils. The disposal of CPW has considerable constraints due to both economic and environmental factors. Currently this residue is mainly used as food for animals, thanks to its nutritional capacity. If enough agricultural land is available close to the processing industries, the use of CPW as organic soil conditioner or as substrate for compost production is also possible, thus improving the organic matter content of the soil. Recently, the possibility of its valorisation for biomethane or bioethanol production has been evaluated by several studies, but currently more research is needed to overcome the toxic effects of the essential oils on the microbial community. Considering the high added value of the compounds that can be recovered from CPW, it has promising potential uses: in the food industry (for production of pectin, dietary fibres, etc.), and in the cosmetic and pharmaceutic industries (extraction of flavonoids, flavouring agents and citric acid). However, in many cases, these uses are still not economically sustainable.

Keywords: Agronomic utilization; Animal food; Citrus peel waste; Cosmetic and pharmaceutic compounds; Essential oil; Storage.