Reimagining Food Waste: The Potential of Fruits and Vegetables as Animal Feed

Abstract The increasing global demand for food, along with shifting dietary preferences toward plant-based diets, has led to a rise in food production, resulting in significant waste, particularly in the horticultural sector. By-products from the processing of fruits and vegetables, such as apple pomace, citrus pulp, grape pomace, banana peel, pineapple pomace, tomato pomace, and roots and tuber peel, often go to waste or are poorly managed, contributing to environmental pollution and nutrient loss. These residues, rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, have gained attention for their potential in sustainable practices, particularly in animal nutrition. Utilizing such by-products in animal feed not only reduces waste but also lowers feed costs, enhances feed palatability, and improves livestock performance. This approach aligns with the growing demand for environmentally friendly, cost-effective feed alternatives, helping to mitigate food waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and support food security.