Current and future trends in food waste valorization for the production of chemicals, materials and fuels: a global perspective

Abstract Food waste is currently generated in significant quantities worldwide. While most of this has generally few uses different from landfilling or composting, advanced valorization alternatives should be developed to maximize the value derived from such an important waste source. This contribution aims to illustrate a series of examples and current valorization strategies proposed in different countries in order to tackle the food waste issue. Proposed processing schemes involve biorefinery approaches based on both chemical and biological technologies. Important legislation aspects in different countries are also presented. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd