Food waste generation and industrial uses: A review. (November 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Girotto, Francesca; Alibardi, Luca; Cossu, Raffaello
• Is Part Of: Waste management. Volume 45(2015)
• Page Start: 32
• Page End: 41
• Publication Date: 2015-11
• Subjects: Food waste -- Generation -- Prevention -- Biorefinery -- Biofuels -- Bioproducts; Hazardous wastes -- Periodicals; Refuse and refuse disposal -- Periodicals; 363.728
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2015.06.008
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0956-053X

Abstract

Highlights: Food waste generation and industrial uses options are reviewed. The problem of food waste involves all sectors of waste management. Solutions can be prioritised similarly to the waste management hierarchy. Increasing effort is currently being focused on biofuels and bioproducts production. Abstract: Food waste is made up of materials intended for human consumption that are subsequently discharged, lost, degraded or contaminated. The problem of food waste is currently on an increase, involving all sectors of waste management from collection to disposal; the identifying of sustainable solutions extends to all contributors to the food supply chains, agricultural and industrial sectors, as well as retailers and final consumers. A series of solutions may be implemented in the appropriate management of food waste, and prioritised in a similar way to waste management hierarchy. The most sought-after solutions are represented by avoidance and donation of edible fractions to social services. Food waste is also employed in industrial processes for the production of biofuels or biopolymers. Further steps foresee the recovery of nutrients and fixation of carbon by composting. Final and less desirable options are incineration and landfilling. A considerable amount of research has been carried out on food waste with a view to the recovery of energy or related products. The present review aims to provide an overview of current debate on food waste definitions, generation and reduction strategies, and conversion technologies emerging from the biorefinery concept.