Compositional and Physicochemical Characterization of Cashew Apple Bagasse ( <i>Anacardium occidentale</i> L.) as a Potential Lignocellulosic Feedstock

Cashew apple bagasse (<i>Anacardium occidentale</i> L.) is an agricultural byproduct that has been minimally studied. Still, it offers many potential uses in the food, pharmaceutical, and energy industries. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of this biomass, including its physicochemical, structural, thermal, and phytochemical properties, to clarify its functional and technological applications. The material showed a high dietary fiber content (45.01% NDF), reduced sugars (34.22 mg g^-1), and protein content (11.96%), along with low water activity (0.58), which supports microbiological stability. UPLC-PDA-MS analysis identified several bioactive compoundsincluding ferulic acid, chlorogenic acid, myricetin, quercetin, and anacardic acidsthat are known for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects. The lipid fraction was mainly composed of oleic acid (ω-9, 62.71%) with a balanced ω-6/ω-3 ratio (∼1.6:1), indicating high nutritional value and oxidative stability. Structural and morphological analyses confirmed a dense fibrous matrix rich in cellulose and hemicellulose, while thermal analyses showed stability up to 360 °C, supporting its use in thermochemical or extrusion-based processes. Overall, these findings suggest that cashew apple bagasse is a promising lignocellulosic feedstock for use in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and biopolymer production, promoting circular and sustainable industrial practices. However, its successful performance in such applications will rely on future research focused on process optimization and product validation.