Circular economy and valorization of pomegranate peel: Innovation for multifunctional applications

The agro-food industry faces a continuous challenge in sustainably managing the by-products generated during production processes. The implementation of circular economy strategies transforms these residues into high-value resources, thereby contributing to both environmental and economic sustainability. Within this framework, the present project focuses on the valorization of pomegranate peel (Punica granatum L.), a by-product predominantly discarded despite its richness in polyphenolic bioactive compounds, such as tannins and flavonoids. These compounds are widely recognized for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, dermocosmetic, and nutraceutical properties.

Through advanced biotechnological extraction processes, pomegranate peel extracts were obtained, demonstrating a remarkable phenolic content of 64.68 ± 7.43 (g GAE/100 g of dry extract) and a high antioxidant capacity of 977.08 ± 15.73 (mmol Trolox/100 g of dry extract). These results establish pomegranate peel as a valuable and competitive resource for the formulation of cosmetic and nutraceutical products. Additionally, the residual plant material from the extraction process was optimized for the development of innovative biomaterials, including gym flooring and construction panels, highlighting its versatility and maximizing the project’s sustainability impact.

In parallel, the bioactive compounds extracted from pomegranate peel were studied for their impact on the regulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are critical in mitigating oxidative stress and maintaining cellular health. The results indicate that these compounds support gut microbiota balance and may contribute to the prevention of oxidative stress-related diseases.

This project fosters collaboration among agricultural producers, biotechnological companies, and logistical sectors, thereby strengthening the value chain within the agro-food industry. This approach exemplifies an innovative and scalable model of sustainability and circular economy, delivering significant environmental, social, and economic benefits.