Road to valorisation of melon seeds (Cucumis melo L.): a comprehensive review of nutritional profiles, biological activities, and food applications

Abstract

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) is a commercial fruit planted worldwide in large quantities; meanwhile, substantial amounts of melon seeds as a by-product are generated within the food chain supply but are scarcely utilised. Currently, there is extensive attention on valorisation strategies of melon seeds, driven by circular economy strategies and the UN’s sustainable development goals agenda. This by-product has high potential value and could be re-utilised and re-introduced into the supply chain as a promising ingredient in food development. The aim of this review is to highlight melon seed nutritional composition, biological activities of individual components, and current advances in food product development. Besides that, this review also highlights some promising green extraction technologies for maximising recovery value from melon seeds by reducing environmental burden. Ultimately, this review intends to promote a better understanding of melon seed properties that could enable the efficient utilisation of melon seeds and promote viable valorisation routes.