Transforming Agri-food waste: Innovative pathways toward a zero-waste circular economy

Arun Kumar Pandey; Sheetal Thakur; Rahul Mehra; Raj Sukhwinder Singh Kaler; Maman Paul; Arun Kumar

doi:10.1016/j.fochx.2025.102604

Transforming Agri-food waste: Innovative pathways toward a zero-waste circular economy

Food Chem X. 2025 May 30:28:102604. doi: 10.1016/j.fochx.2025.102604. eCollection 2025 May.

Authors

Arun Kumar Pandey¹, Sheetal Thakur², Rahul Mehra³, Raj Sukhwinder Singh Kaler⁴, Maman Paul⁵, Arun Kumar⁶

Affiliations

¹ Amity Institute of Biotechnology, Amity University, Rajasthan, Jaipur 303002, India.
² University Centre for Research & Development, Department of Biotechnology, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, 140413, India.
³ University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Gharuan, Mohali, Punjab, 140413, India.
⁴ Department of Food Science and Technology, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, Punjab, India.
⁵ Department of Physiotherapy, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar 143005, Punjab, India.
⁶ Department of Food Science and Technology, Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun 248002, Uttarakhand, India.

Abstract

Agri-food waste is one of the most abundant biomass resources globally, generated through ongoing agricultural activities and food industry operations. Around 30 % of food produced for human consumption is lost during production and processing, contributing to an estimated 150 billion metric tons of waste annually-an amount projected to grow by 7.5 % each year. Conventional disposal methods such as landfilling, and incineration result in significant environmental harm and economic loss. However, agri-food waste contains valuable organic compounds that can be repurposed into value-added products, supporting the transition to a zero-waste circular economy. This review compiles recent advancements in the generation, categorization, and valorization of agri-food waste, highlighting its potential in biotechnology for producing antibiotics, fermented foods, nutraceuticals, and industrial materials. By aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11, 12, and 13, the review underscores the need for increased research, technological innovation, and public awareness to foster sustainable waste management practices.

Keywords: Agri-waste; Circular economy; Food waste; Valorization; Waste management; Waste-categorization.

Publication types

Review