Vol. 6, Issue 2, Part B (2024)

This paper tackles the pressing issue of waste in the global agro-food and fruit industry, where approximately half of all fruits and vegetables produced are discarded, amounting to a staggering 1.6 billion tons of "primary product equivalent," as reported by the United Nations. However, the paper shifts the focus to the hidden potential within fruit waste, such as peels and seeds, which harbour a wealth of bioactive compounds. By harnessing these valuable resources, the paper proposes the development of an innovative food product aimed at fortifying the human immune system, achieved through their incorporation alongside microalgae Spirulina. The paper comprises three critical sections: a comprehensive literature review and quantitative analysis establishing the link between fruit waste and human health, the extraction of high-value bioactive compounds from fruit waste, and the practical integration of these compounds into new, health enhancing food products. The paper also evaluates the shelf-life of these products, a pivotal aspect in their ability to contribute to the global "zero waste" initiative. This multifaceted approach merges scientific evidence, innovation, and practicality, offering a promising solution that addresses environmental concerns while promoting human well-being.