"Transforming Pomegranate Waste into Value-Added Products: An Innovative Approach to Sustainability"

Abstract

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a globally revered fruit celebrated for its sweet and tangy arils. However, the often-overlooked pomegranate peel, which constitutes a substantial portion of the fruit, possesses remarkable untapped potential. This review explores the transformation of pomegranate peel waste into value-added products, addressing the multidimensional aspects of sustainability, health, and economics. Pomegranate peel is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, antioxidants, and dietary fibers, which contribute to its numerous applications (Ambigaipalan et al., 2016). The utilization of pomegranate peel encompasses diverse sectors, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, food and beverages, bioenergy (Haque et al., 2023), and agriculture. Extracts and derivatives from pomegranate peel exhibit significant health (Viswanath et al., 2019) benefits, serving as ingredients in pharmaceutical formulations and nutraceutical supplements. In the cosmetics industry, pomegranate peel extracts feature prominently in skincare products, harnessing their anti-aging and skin-enhancing properties. In the food and beverage sector, pomegranate peel offers natural flavoring and coloring agents, adding vibrancy and taste to a variety of products. Furthermore, pomegranate peel waste can be repurposed into biofuels, such as biogas and bioethanol, aligning with sustainable energy production. Its value extends to agriculture, where composted peel enhances soil quality and, in turn, crop yields. Sustainable business models for pomegranate peel utilization encompass vertical integration, circular economy practices, and collaborative supply chains. These models promote environmental responsibility, stimulate local economies, and contribute to a circular economy by reducing food waste. While pomegranate peel's potential for value-added products is immense, challenges persist in terms of processing costs, market competition, and regulatory compliance. Overcoming these challenges requires investment in research and development, technological innovation, and consumer education to realize the full economic and sustainable potential of pomegranate peel waste utilization. This review underscores the transformative journey of pomegranate peel waste, transcending its status as a byproduct to emerge as a valuable contributor to health, sustainability, and economic prosperity