Investigation of Proximate Analysis and Phytochemical Screening of Dry Orange Waste (Citrus sinensis) Extract: From Agrowaste to Sustainable Development

Abstract

In the 21st century, where the amount of garbage produced is a nuisance to both man and his environment, the waste to wealth program should be a fundamental part of sustainable living. Therefore, the purpose of this effort is to turn waste to wealth by extracting oil from orange peel (waste) and investigate its nutraceutical potential and usefulness to human. Phytochemicals and proximate analysis of dry peel orange were herein investigated. The result obtained are as follows: moisture content 10.30%±0.04; ash 5.51%±0.02; crude fat 2.78%±0.01; protein 16.51%±0.10, crude fiber 12.47%±0.05 and carbohydrate 52.43±0.42%. Phytochemically speaking, the extract contained alkaloids, phenol, tannin, flavonoid, Carbohydrate, Quinones, Glycosides, Steroids and Saponin. These phytoconstituents implied that the extract exhibits good pharmaceutical potential while the result of its proximate composition revealed its nutritional tendency. Hence, it is conceivable to know that from this agrowaste (orange peel), it is possible to derive nutraceutical benefits which could support wealth and wellbeing of mankind for sustainable development. This will increase economic growth (SDG-8), ensure zero hunger (SDG-2), provide responsible consumption and production (SDG-12). Nutraceutical potential of this agrowaste from orange peel will also engender good health and well-beings (SDG-3).