Enzyme-treated chicory for cosmetics: application assessment and techno-economic analysis

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Biotechnology
• Cosmetic Science

Background:

• Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is a key industrial crop for inulin production.
• Chicory bagasse, a by-product, contains valuable bioactive secondary metabolites.
• Current use of chicory bagasse is primarily as animal feed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the antimicrobial properties of enzymatically pre-treated chicory biomass.
• To evaluate the potential of chicory biomass as a bioactive ingredient for cosmetic products.
• To determine the economic feasibility of valorizing chicory biomass for cosmetic applications.

Main Methods:

• Chicory biomass was pre-treated with various enzymes, individually and in combination.
• Antimicrobial activity of the released compounds was tested.
• An extract was incorporated into a cosmetic formula and challenged with skin pathogens.
• Techno-economic analysis was performed to estimate economic feasibility.

Main Results:

• Enzymatic pre-treatment significantly enhanced the antimicrobial activity of chicory biomass.
• The resulting extract demonstrated efficacy against common skin pathogens in a cosmetic formulation.
• Valorization of chicory biomass as a cosmetic ingredient is technically and economically viable.

Conclusions:

• Enzymatic pre-treatment unlocks the antimicrobial potential of chicory bagasse.
• Chicory biomass can be sustainably transformed into effective cosmetic ingredients.
• This valorization strategy offers a promising avenue for the cosmetic industry.