Fruit Peel Valorization, Phytochemical Profile, Biological Activity, and Applications in Food and Packaging Industries: Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The purpose of this review is to thoroughly explore and document the potential uses of fruit peels. It aims to achieve several key objectives, including the identification of phytochemical compounds in peels, the assessment of their biological properties, and the examination of their practical applications in the food and packaging industries. Ultimately, this review seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of how fruit peels can be valorized to enhance food quality and packaging techniques. Research efforts have mostly focused on the utilization of fruit peels to exploit their antioxidant capabilities, as they contain bioactive chemicals that have beneficial effects on human health. Furthermore, scholarly investigations have examined the utilization of extracts derived from fruit peels as a means of prolonging the longevity of food items, serving as an environmentally conscious substitute for artificial preservatives. The increased focus on sustainability has resulted in a heightened level of interest in novel approaches aimed at mitigating fruit peel waste and minimizing environmental consequences. In addition, there has been an increasing interest in utilizing chemicals obtained from fruit peels as integral constituents of packaging materials that are both biodegradable and environmentally sustainable. These research domains collectively contribute to elucidating the utility and versatility of fruit peels in diverse sectors. This review aims to explore the various applications of fruit peels, with a particular focus on highlighting their underutilized potential as valuable resources. This review investigates the antioxidant qualities exhibited by fruit peels, their potential impact on the preservation of natural food products, and their significant contribution towards promoting sustainability through waste reduction. Moreover, the use of these materials in biodegradable packaging presents environmentally sustainable alternatives. Through a comprehensive examination of these many characteristics, this paper highlights the importance of fruit peel valorization across a range of industries, offering valuable insights into their evolving roles and contributions.