Unearthing the potential of solid waste generated along the pineapple drying process line in Uganda: A review

Abstract

Proper and sustainable waste management can fasten the product certification process for dried pineapple products in Uganda. This study reviews the potential use of novel scientific and technical methods for pineapple waste (peelings, crown, core, culled pineapple) management at dried fruit processing facilities in Uganda. The study findings reveal that the nutritional value of pineapple waste puts it in a better place for the development of high-value products. Culled pineapple, core, and peelings can be used for biogas production through anaerobic digestion. The use of biogas for lighting and cooking could improve the overall living conditions for the pineapple processors. The digestate is suitable for an organic soil amendment. The saturated culled pineapple and peelings can be used for juice extraction and pineapple water production. Fermentation of pineapple juice yields wine and upon further fermentation yielding vinegar. Also, pineapple waste can be used for animal feed (pellets and animal feed block), production of paper, and fertilizers because of the high-fiber and cellulose content. Therefore, the circular economy of pineapple solid waste contributes to the green economy through reduced deforestation and direct emission of carbon dioxide gas as well as increasing the revenue streams for the processing facilities in Uganda.

Keywords

• Pineapple waste
• Environment
• Circular economy
• Processing facilities
• Uganda