Raw biowaste conversion to high-value compounds for food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries

Biowaste valorisation into high-value compounds is one of the main challenges of green chemistry, as chemicals produced from biological sources are identified as key substances in the development of a low-carbon and circular bioeconomy in connection with the transition from fossil to renewable feedstocks. The review summarizes the production of high-value products such as glucose-based chemicals, phenolic compounds and volatile-fatty acids prepared from biomass waste. Biowaste pretreatment methods such as milling, filtration and extraction followed by current non-catalytic methods such as microwave or ultrasound extraction and catalytic methods for the production value-added compounds in the presence of various catalyst types in conventional, nano or enzyme form are listed with a focus on value-added chemicals applied in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The economic feasibility, technical aspects and concept of the biorefinery are briefly mentioned, emphasizing the necessity of life cycle assessment for each bioproduct and technological process. Finally, it provides a future perspective and makes recommendations for potential research strategies, recognizing the importance of utilizing biomass waste for the production of useful compounds as an attractive and environmentally friendly approach whose development should be encouraged. The utilization of biowaste for high-value chemicals production shows high potential, however, there are still many challenges to be resolved throughout the entire production chain, reflecting technological, economic, ecological, sociological and long-term issues.