FROM AGRI-FOOD WASTE TO FOOD SECURITY: EXPLORING THE BUSINESS POTENTIAL OF AGRI-WASTE FUNCTIONAL COMPOUNDS

Abstract

Food security, energy crisis, reducing food losses and waste are among the significant challenges in fulfilling the dietary requirements of the rapidly growing population. The increase in population affects agricultural production on both international and national scales. Approximately one-third of crops grown traditionally suffer damage mostly as a result of natural disasters, insect and microbial assaults, nutrient deficiencies, and poor soil quality. This results in the production of large amounts of waste. A large portion of global solid waste is generated from agricultural waste.  Examples of agri-waste include food processing waste, crop residues, leaf litterweeds. sawdust and forest trash. Improper management of agricultural waste harms the environment, poses serious threats to human health, and eventually worsens the environment. Food insecurity is rising due to population growth, inappropriate use of natural resources, waste and limited food supply. Agri-waste is enriched with essential nutrients. The recovery of essential nutrients from agri-food waste is a key solution in reducing waste, preventing excessive raw material consumption, and enhancing the business potential of agri-waste functional compounds. The present chapter highlights the likely business models to reduce food waste