December 11, 2024 | Food Biophysics|
This study, conducted by researchers from Costa Rica (Universidad de Costa Rica) and Spain (Universidad de Córdoba), explores the efficient valorization of red pitahaya (Hylocereus sp.) peels using a multi-product cascade biorefinery approach. The research aims to address sustainability challenges by transforming agricultural waste into value-added materials.
The process begins with the sequential extraction and purification of key components from pitahaya peels: a betalain-rich extract (BET), pectin (PEC), and cellulose nanofibers (CNF). This approach enables the utilization of 79.5% of the peel material, demonstrating a highly efficient use of this agro-industrial byproduct. The purified fractions were integrated into PEC-based films, reinforced with varying proportions of CNF (5–45%). Films containing 45% CNF exhibited optimal mechanical performance, with a tensile strength of 20.47 MPa and enhanced thermal stability.
Bioactive functionality was introduced by incorporating BET into the films at different concentrations (5–50%). These bioactive films exhibited increased UV-blocking capacity (57%), enhanced wettability, and a compact structure, though higher BET content slightly reduced water vapor barrier properties and transparency. This collaborative research underscores the potential of red pitahaya peel-derived materials for sustainable applications in bioactive packaging and other functional uses.
