Circular Bioeconomy: Novel Processes and Materials for Food Preservation

Abstract

Circular Bioeconomy is a concept becoming an integral part of industrial green technological processes, whereby residues are considered as novel resources and a new sustainable closed model based on high-value applications of biomass is developed. In the field of food technology, the scientific community is undertaking efforts to utilize food processing by-products as highly sustainable resources for the production of food packaging materials and bioactive compounds. Thus, multiple research groups are currently engaged in the complete valorization of food wastes into alternative feedstocks for monomers and intermediates to produce biopolymers and green composites, as well as in the extraction and purification of antioxidants, natural preservatives or antimicrobials to enrich food quality and ensure food safety. This Reprint aims to compile the most recent advances in the processes and materials concerning with the valorization of food wastes, as well as the conversion of food residues into new nutrients and innovative solutions for food preservation.