Pomelo by-products: A bibliometric review on enhancing gut health and digestive function for metabolic regulation through advanced processing techniques

Abstract

Pomelo (Citrus maxima or Citrus grandis) is widely cultivated for its edible pulp; however, processing generates substantial quantities of by-products, including peel, pith, sponge layer, and fruitlets, which are typically discarded as waste. Recent research highlights these by-products as abundant sources of bioactive compounds with promising health-promoting properties. This synthesis of current scientific evidence focuses on the potential of pomelo by-products to support gut health and digestive function, with particular emphasis on metabolic regulation. Key bioactive constituents identified in pomelo by-products include dietary fibers, pectins, flavonoids, and essential oils. These compounds have demonstrated the capacity to modulate gut microbiota composition by selectively promoting beneficial bacterial genera and enhancing short-chain fatty acid production. Additionally, pomelo by-products can inhibit carbohydrate-degrading enzymes such as α-glucosidase and lipid-degrading enzymes like pancreatic lipase, contributing to improved glycemic control and lipid metabolism. Furthermore, bile acid binding by pomelo by-product extracts can influence cholesterol metabolism and lipid absorption. Advanced processing technologies including super-comminution, enzymatic modification, fermentation, and pulsed electric field treatments have been investigated to enhance the release, stability, and bioavailability of these bioactive compounds, thereby improving their functional efficacy in food systems. Processing techniques are critically evaluated, highlighting their potential for sustainable upcycling of pomelo processing waste into high-value functional food ingredients and nutraceuticals. Despite encouraging preclinical evidence supporting the health benefits of pomelo by-products, further well-designed clinical trials are necessary to confirm their efficacy and safety in human populations. Overall, pomelo by-products show potential for development into sustainable and functional food ingredients that support gut health, regulate metabolic processes, and contribute to healthier dietary patterns.

Keywords: Advanced processing; Bioactive compounds; Digestive function; Functional foods; Gut health; Metabolic regulation; Pomelo by-products.

Graphical abstract

Fig. 1

Keyword Co-occurrence Network of Pomelo and Metabolic Health Research (2019–2025). VOSviewer analysis visualizing relationships among terms from publications related to pomelo by-products and metabolic health. Node size reflects term frequency, while colors indicate thematic clusters such as bioactive compounds, enzyme inhibition, gut microbiota, antioxidant activity, and processing techniques.

Fig. 2

Prebiotic functions of pomelo by-products. SCFAs, short-chain fatty acids; F/B ratio, Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio.

Fig. 3

Potential of pomelo by-products for inhibiting carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes and processes involved in lipid digestion/absorption. HMP, high-methoxy pectin; DF, dietary fiber; IDF insoluble dietary fiber; MCC, microcrystalline cellulose.