Summary:

Fruit and vegetable processing waste represents a significant environmental and economic issue. Globally, around 1.3 billion tons of food are wasted each year, a substantial portion of which comes from fruit and vegetable processing. In Europe, this waste can account for up to 30% of the entire stream of post-production waste. The estimate ranges from 5 to 9 million tons per year in Poland. This waste mainly originates from the processing of potatoes, apples, and sugar beets. Effective waste management, through the production of biogas and compost, brings ecological and economic benefits, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and improves soil quality. Moreover, using waste to produce valuable products, such as fertilizers and food additives, can increase the revenue of the agri-food industry. This article analyzes the available methods for managing fruit and vegetable processing waste and their practical application.