Economic Importance and Potential of Food Industry Waste Valorization for Functional Product Development

Session

Agriculture, Food Science and Technology

Description

In the era of sustainable development, valorization of food industry waste has gained particular importance as a strategy to reduce environmental pollution and promote a circular economy. This study investigates the potential of transforming industrial and organic food waste into functional products with added value. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was implemented, using a structured questionnaire distributed electronically via Google Forms to 322 respondents representing consumers and food industry stakeholders in Kosovo. Data were analyzed to assess awareness, attitudes, and acceptance toward products derived from food waste. Processing techniques including mechanical, chemical, and biological recycling were explored, alongside the role of innovation in design and technology to ensure functional and sustainable outcomes. The study focuses particularly on waste generated from fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy, and meat products. Efficient utilization of these wastes offers potential for sustainable development, creating bioactive compounds such as dietary fibers, proteins, antioxidants, and nutraceuticals. Findings indicate significant opportunities for Kosovo, highlighting economic benefits, resource conservation, promotion of circular economy principles, and the provision of healthier consumer alternatives. The study emphasizes the importance of supportive policies, ethical research practices, and investment in technology to ensure quality, safety, and sustainability of products. These results contribute to advancing sustainable practices in the agri-food sector and promoting a greener regional economy.

Keywords:

Food waste, Valorization, Circular economy, Functional products, Sustainable development, Bioactive components, Quantitative research

Proceedings Editor

Edmond Hajrizi

ISBN

978-9951-982-41-2

Location

UBT Lipjan, Kosovo

Start Date

25-10-2025 9:00 AM

End Date

26-10-2025 6:00 PM

DOI

10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.173

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Oct 25th, 9:00 AM Oct 26th, 6:00 PM

Economic Importance and Potential of Food Industry Waste Valorization for Functional Product Development

UBT Lipjan, Kosovo

In the era of sustainable development, valorization of food industry waste has gained particular importance as a strategy to reduce environmental pollution and promote a circular economy. This study investigates the potential of transforming industrial and organic food waste into functional products with added value. A quantitative, cross-sectional research design was implemented, using a structured questionnaire distributed electronically via Google Forms to 322 respondents representing consumers and food industry stakeholders in Kosovo. Data were analyzed to assess awareness, attitudes, and acceptance toward products derived from food waste. Processing techniques including mechanical, chemical, and biological recycling were explored, alongside the role of innovation in design and technology to ensure functional and sustainable outcomes. The study focuses particularly on waste generated from fruits, vegetables, cereals, dairy, and meat products. Efficient utilization of these wastes offers potential for sustainable development, creating bioactive compounds such as dietary fibers, proteins, antioxidants, and nutraceuticals. Findings indicate significant opportunities for Kosovo, highlighting economic benefits, resource conservation, promotion of circular economy principles, and the provision of healthier consumer alternatives. The study emphasizes the importance of supportive policies, ethical research practices, and investment in technology to ensure quality, safety, and sustainability of products. These results contribute to advancing sustainable practices in the agri-food sector and promoting a greener regional economy.