Citrus fruit peels represent more than 40% of the weight of the raw material used in juice production. Now, researchers from the State University of Campinas (Unicamp) have developed a biotechnological method that recycles these residues, transforming them into materials with added economic value. They adapted a pectin extraction method that uses citric acid to be applied to orange peels, taking advantage of the soluble fiber present in this residue. Water- soluble pectin is widely used by the food industry in the manufacture of jellies, compotes and other sweets.
The team was also able to extract xylan from the remaining residue, a substance that can be converted into xylo-oligosaccharides through enzymatic processes. Technical procedures allowed the production of pectin with more than 80% purity, enabling the recycling of orange peels and reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills. The reuse of this waste is a way to promote the circular economy and contribute to sustainability.
Source: abrafrutas.org