Orange pulp — long treated as a waste product of the citrus industry — has been gaining new status as a valuable raw material. Composed of peels, seeds and fibers, this material — previously destined primarily for animal feed — is also known as citrus bagasse.
Brazilian citrus association Fundecitrus reports that companies in the citrus industry have been investing in processes that allow for the complete repurposing of this waste. They are converting it into solutions for the food, cosmetics and energy industries.
Citrus pulp is already appearing in a variety of applications. In the food sector, it can be used to enrich products with fiber, improve texture and serve as a functional ingredient. In the cosmetics industry, it is incorporated into the formulations of creams and other products. It also holds potential for use in clean energy generation.
Beyond the economic benefits, the repurposing of bagasse contributes directly to the sustainability of the citrus supply chain. By reducing waste and finding a high-value use for a material previously discarded, the citrus industry advances toward more efficient and environmentally responsible processes.
Fundecitrus reports that this shift demonstrates that the orange has much to offer beyond just juice. By transforming waste into opportunities, the citrus industry is uniting innovation, sustainability and value creation.
Learn more about this topic in Issue 63 of Citricultor, a Fundecitrus publication. In an article in that issue, Daniela Kharfan, food engineer and research and development manager of JBT Marel, shares more information on citrus bagasse.
“Several students and scientists have shown their interest in the citrus bagasse generated at our pilot plant in Araraquara to conduct studies on new products, bioinputs and even energy use,” Kharfan says.
She notes there are still hurdles to be tackled, such as transportation, storage and the seasonality of fruit processing.
Source: Fundecitrus
Share this Post