AN OVERVIEW ON THERMOCHEMICAL VALORIZATION OF POTATO PEELS INTO ADDED-VALUE PRODUCTS

Rezumat

The management of agri-food waste is a major environmental and economic challenge. Potato peels are a significant by-product of the food industry. They are rich in dietary fiber, phenolic compounds, residual starch, vitamins, and minerals. Valorization of potato peels into value-added products is a promising solution. Biochar and bio-oil can be produced via pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonization. Hydrothermal carbonization converts wet biomass into hydrochar under moderate temperature and pressure, while pyrolysis decomposes peels in the absence of oxygen into solids, liquids, and gases. Potato peel biochar enhances soil fertility, sequesters carbon, adsorbs pollutants, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Chemical analyses confirm high nutrient and phenolic content with trace heavy metals, ensuring safety and efficiency. Overall, these treatments transform potato peel waste into renewable resources, supporting circular economy practices and climate change mitigation.