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Transforming Agri-Waste into Health Innovation: A Circular Framework for Sustainable Food Design

Author

Listed:
  • Smita Mortero

    (Technopreneurship and Innovation Management, Graduate School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand)

  • Jirarat Anuntagool

    (Department of Food Technology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand)

  • Achara Chandrachai

    (Chulalongkorn Business School, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand)

  • Sanong Ekgasit

    (Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand)

Abstract

This study addresses the problem of agricultural waste utilization and nutrition for older adults by developing a food product based on a circular design approach. Pineapple core was used to produce a clean-label dietary powder without chemical or enzymatic treatment, relying on repeated rinsing and hot-air drying. The development process followed a structured analysis of physical, chemical, and sensory properties. The powder contained 83.46 g/100 g dietary fiber, 0° Brix sugar, pH 4.72, low water activity (aw < 0.45), and no detectable heavy metals or microbial contamination. Sensory evaluation by expert panelists confirmed that the product was acceptable in appearance, aroma, and texture, particularly for older adults. These results demonstrate the feasibility and safety of valorizing agri-waste into functional ingredients. The process was guided by the Transformative Circular Product Blueprint, which integrates clean-label processing, IoT-enabled solar drying, and decentralized production. This model supports traceability, low energy use, and adaptation at the community scale. This study contributes to sustainable food innovation and aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), and 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Suggested Citation

  • Smita Mortero & Jirarat Anuntagool & Achara Chandrachai & Sanong Ekgasit, 2025. "Transforming Agri-Waste into Health Innovation: A Circular Framework for Sustainable Food Design," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-15, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:6712-:d:1708357
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Chitralada Chaiya & Pichate Pinthong, 2024. "Integrating Environmental and Socioeconomic Factors for a Sustainable Circular Economy in Thailand," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(23), pages 1-34, December.
    2. Eko Ruddy Cahyadi & Nurul Hidayati & Nisa Zahra & Chusnul Arif, 2024. "Integrating Circular Economy Principles into Agri-Food Supply Chain Management: A Systematic Literature Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(16), pages 1-17, August.
    3. Mateusz Lewandowski, 2016. "Designing the Business Models for Circular Economy—Towards the Conceptual Framework," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 8(1), pages 1-28, January.
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