Unlocking the potential of food waste as a nutrient goldmine for microalgae cultivation: A review
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-1-2025
Abstract
The increasing demand for microalgae biomass, driven by its applications in biofuel, food, and pharmaceuticals, necessitates the development of cost-effective cultivation methods. Utilizing food waste as an alternative nutrient source for microalgae cultivation offers a promising solution to reduce operational expenses. In this review, we analyze the nutrient profiles of processed vegetable and fruit waste, palm kernel residue, and spent coffee grounds and address their compatibility with the nutritional needs for microalgae growth. For instance, it was estimated that approximately 4.937 kg and 6.302 kg of banana peel extract powder are needed to provide the equivalent nitrogen concentration for microalgae cultivation as used in Zarrouk's and BG-11 medium, respectively. However, the final nutrient availability for microalgae cultivation depends on the pretreatment methods. The pretreatment processes required to convert food waste into cultivation media, such as composting and anaerobic digestion, are discussed. Besides, the direct use of food waste as a supporting matrix where microalgae cells can attach and grow is addressed. The review further examines the economic feasibility of using these food wastes as nutrient sources by presenting a detailed cost analysis covering both capital and operational expenditures. The key challenges, including nutrient variability and contamination risks, are evaluated, highlighting the need for standardized processing techniques. The review also underscores the importance of further research to optimize these processes and establish the feasibility of large-scale implementation, promoting a sustainable and economically viable future for microalgae cultivation.
Keywords
Food waste, Microalgae cultivation, Resource recovery, Vegetable and fruit waste, Spent coffee grounds, Palm kernel residue
Divisions
InstituteofBiologicalSciences
Funders
National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) International Internship Pilot Program,National Science and Technology Council, Taiwan (112-2222-E-155-005),Department of Chemical Engineering and Material Science, Yuan Ze University, Taiwan, under New Faculty Research Start-Up Fund Scheme (303014-1) ; (303014-2),Research and Development (RD) Office, Yuan Ze University under Assistant Teacher Research Scheme (113-HRD-07)
Publication Title
Journal of Cleaner Production
Volume
492
Publisher
Elsevier
Publisher Location
125 London Wall, London, ENGLAND