Current scenario and global perspectives of citrus fruit waste as a valuable resource for the development of food packaging film

Abstract

BackgroundCitrus fruits are the most prevalent fruit crops around the world. The general consumption of citrus fruits and their processing to finished products like juices, jam, and jelly generate a huge amount of waste (peel, pomace, and seeds). This waste has triggered concerns about the environment, health, and economic losses. Conversely, petroleum-based plastics are highly resistant to degradation and sustain in the environment for a prolonged period resulting in easy access of microplastics into human food chain caused majorly due to plastic food packaging. Living organisms can accumulate microplastics in cells and tissues which results in threats of chronic biological effects and potential health hazards for humans. Scope and approachFor sustainable mitigation, citrus fruit processing wastes (CFPW) is explored as one of the prominent bioresources for biopolymers like pectin, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and bioactive compounds having strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The review provides a comprehensive overview of CFPW utilization for developing biodegradable packaging film for its applicability in food products. The review encompasses both the direct incorporation of citrus peel powder and the secondary utilization of beneficial substances from these residues, mainly pectin, essential oils, and seed extracts. Key findings and conclusionThis review gives insight into the compounds that support the implication of CFPW in packaging with the concept of circular economy, sustainability, and zero waste. An attempt has been made to reflect the role of various components found in CFPW towards its applicability in food packaging with the strategy of comprehensive utilization in the most suitable way.