Abstract:

Our society is urged to act on key challenges, such as those related to resource efficiency, sustainability and bio-economy, from a global approach (scientific, technical, environmental, economic, social and educational) in order to provide alternatives to the current linear economy. In this context, new PhD students involved in the Doctorate Programme in Renewable Materials Engineering work on how to convert abundant and available bio-wastes from food processing industries into raw materials through sustainable processes. The compounds that can be extracted from bio-wastes have a great potential as starting materials in the Food Science and Technology area. In this regard, PhD students work on how to develop novel bioactive products that could enhance food quality, extend food shelf life and, thus, reduce food losses, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. In fact, meeting the requirements of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by closing the loop between waste and consumption is a key challenge for Education in the area of Food Science and Technology.

Keywords:

Food quality, food waste, sustainability.