Spanish Scientists Create Edible Smart Inks from Citrus to Reduce Food Waste
Spanish researchers are actively implementing innovative solutions for recycling orange and tangerine waste, transforming it into high-value-added products for the industry. This initiative is funded by the Regional Ministry of Industry, Tourism, Innovation, and Trade of Spain, led by Mariano Cano, as well as the Ivace+i Innovation program.
This is reported by AgroReview
Smart Food Labeling Technology
As part of the DÉLICE project, the team of scientists aims to minimize food waste and enhance resource efficiency, relying on the principles of a circular economy. The main component of this innovative development is pectin—a natural soluble fiber with gelling properties, obtained from citrus waste. Pectin is used to create biocompatible edible inkjet inks suitable for printing directly on food products.
The project is managed by the Institute of Ceramic Technologies in collaboration with Jaume I University (Castellón) and the company Personas y Tecnología. Funding is provided by the European Regional Development Fund under the Comunitat Valenciana 2021-2027 program.
Sensorial Inks for Food Quality Control
The ITC research group is developing edible inks based on pectin, combining them with sensor elements that change color in response to food spoilage. The visual freshness signal will help consumers avoid consuming spoiled products and reduce food waste associated with uncertainty regarding food quality.
The solution is approaching the achievement of “zero waste,” offering a practical tool for improving food management throughout the entire value chain.
The project promotes the implementation of a circular economy in the manufacturing sector of Valencia, encouraging the use of eco-friendly technologies and the creation of products with significant added value. Utilizing agricultural and food waste not only reduces environmental impact but also opens new economic opportunities for businesses in the region.
The Institute of Ceramic Technologies provides scientific support and research in the field of materials science, while Jaume I University focuses on studying the processes of environmentally friendly use of fruit and vegetable waste. The company Personas y Tecnología is responsible for technological support and the implementation of results in industrial production.
- More details about the initiative can be found on the official resource of Generalitat Valenciana: comunica.gva.es