Integrated Biotechnological Strategies for Sustainable Valorization of Horticultural Waste: From Plant Pathology Management to Nutraceutical Development and Food Safety Assurance

Abstract

The horticulture industry has been a major contributor to organic waste that is generated each year and as such sustainable waste management is becoming important. Historically, the horticultural waste has either been burned or landfilled thus leaving a substantial amount of damage to the environment. Recent developments in biotechnological-based approaches provide new solutions to the valorization of this waste, as the waste can be negatively converted to produce useful products and, thereby, overcome environmental issues, as well as promote economic, environmental and social sustainability. Among the largest opportunities of biotechnology in the waste valorization is in the field of plant pathology where biocontrol agent produced using waste assists in decreasing the use of chemical pesticides and improves the health of crops. Also, horticultural waste is being considered as a source of bioactive compounds to be developed into nutraceuticals. Fruit peels, seeds and stems of fruits contain bioactive compounds that have been proven to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, as well as anti-aging effects that have been used in the development of health-promoting functional foods and supplements. Moreover, food safety assurance is being used through biotechnological approaches with the use of natural preservatives and antimicrobial peptides produced using waste in order to minimize contamination risks and the use of synthetic additives. The valorization of horticultural wastes in developing areas provides a twofold advantage that includes not only lessening the amount of waste in the society but also the generation of revenue by means of manufacturing valuable by-products. Although these solutions have the potential, there are several challenges such as scales, safety, and regulatory issues that must be mitigated to facilitate the popularity of these biotechnological solutions. The present paper talks about the different approaches to the valorization of horticultural waste, and how this can be used to facilitate sustainability in agriculture and food production systems.