Abstract

KHAN, Nuraan et al. Fruit waste streams in South Africa and their potential role in developing a bio-economy. S. Afr. j. sci. [online]. 2015, vol.111, n.5-6, pp.1-11. ISSN 1996-7489.  http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/sajs.2015/20140189.

Current and previous studies on bio-based (fruit) wastes and wastewaters, with a particular emphasis on research in South Africa, were reviewed. Previous studies have focused predominantly on the beneficiation and application of fruit waste as a feedstock for renewable energy. A definite gap in knowledge and application of fruit waste streams with regard to enzyme production as a value-added product is identified. The characteristics and composition of each type of fruit waste are highlighted and their potential as feedstocks in the production of value-added products is identified. The conversion of agri-industrial wastewaters to bioenergy and value-added products is discussed, with special mention of the newly published South African Bio-Economy Strategy, and the potential production of biofuels and enzymes from waste streams using recombinant Aspergillus strains. Finally, to maximise utilisation of waste streams in South Africa and abroad, a conceptual model for an integrated system using different technologies is proposed.

Keywords : bio-economy; bio-energy; fruit waste; value-added products; wastewaters.

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