Fruit waste streams in South Africa and their potential role in developing a bio-economy : review article

• Published in: South African journal of science Vol. 111; no. 5; pp. 1 - 11
• Main Authors: Khan, Nuraan, Pletschke, Brett I., Ohlhoff, Colin, Van Dyk, J. Susan, Kudanga, Tukayi, Grandin, Kerry A., Welz, Pamela J., Le Roes-Hill, Marilize, Van Zyl, W.H. (Emile)
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Academy of Science for South Africa (ASSAf) 01.05.2015
• Subjects: Bio-economy; Bio-energy; Fruit waste; Value-added products; Wastewaters
• ISSN: 0038-2353; 1996-7489
• DOI: 10.17159/sajs.2015/20140189

Current and previous studies on bio-based (fruit) wastes and wastewaters, with a particular emphasis on research in South Africa, were reviewed. Previous studies have focused predominantly on the beneficiation and application of fruit waste as a feedstock for renewable energy. A definite gap in knowledge and application of fruit waste streams with regard to enzyme production as a value-added product is identified. The characteristics and composition of each type of fruit waste are highlighted and their potential as feedstocks in the production of value-added products is identified. The conversion of agri-industrial wastewaters to bioenergy and value-added products is discussed, with special mention of the newly published South African Bio-Economy Strategy, and the potential production of biofuels and enzymes from waste streams using recombinant Aspergillus strains. Finally, to maximise utilisation of waste streams in South Africa and abroad, a conceptual model for an integrated system using different technologies is proposed.