Food Upcycling : a trend on the rise

Food upcycling, which transforms underutilized by-products or ingredients into high-value products, is gradually gaining traction as a strategic lever in the food industry. Although still relatively unknown to the general public, this practice is redefining value chains by offering economic, environmental, and innovative solutions.

 

 

A Promising Market in the Circular Economy

 

Food upcycling is emerging as a pivotal player in the circular economy. According to Future Market Insights, the global upcycled food market is expected to reach $95 billion by 2032, with an average annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%.

This growth is fueled by increasing consumer awareness and stricter regulations to reduce food waste, such as the AGEC law in France and the European Green Deal. In Europe, the European Commission estimates that nearly 20% of food waste could be reused through upcycling initiatives.

 

 

Why Upcycling Appeals to the Food Industry

 

• Reducing Food Waste : The European Union generates approximately 88 million tons of food waste annually, at an estimated cost of €143 billion. Upcycling offers an economically viable alternative to mitigate these losses while meeting consumer expectations ;

 

• Economic Opportunity : Traditionally viewed as waste, by-products become valuable resources through upcycling. Every dollar invested in strategies to reduce food waste generates up to $7 in operational savings (source: Food Navigator), making upcycling economically attractive for industry players ;

 

• Growing Consumer Demand : A study by the Upcycled Food Association reveals that 62% of consumers globally are willing to pay more for upcycled products. They perceive these products as environmentally friendly and innovative, driving their popularity in sustainable food markets.

 

Concrete Examples of Upcycled Food Products

 

• Brewer’s Spent Grain : Residual grain from beer brewing is widely used to create various food products, such as crackers, snack biscuits, pasta, noodles, and energy bars. Valued for their fiber and protein content, spent grains cater to the growing demand for healthy, vegan, and eco-friendly snacks ;

 

• Coffee Grounds for Mushrooms : Several companies repurpose coffee grounds, often discarded, to cultivate edible mushrooms (e.g., oyster mushrooms). This process is both sustainable and yields unique food products ;

 

• Fruit and Vegetable By-Products : components like fruit pits, apple pomace, and vegetable trimmings are repurposed into popular products, including spreads, dairy-free ice creams, plant-based meats, and functional ingredients rich in fiber or protein ;

 

• Shells : Nut shells (e.g., almond and walnut shells) are transformed into flours for baking or protein bar production, while eggshells are processed into calcium for dietary supplements or beverages ;

 

• Fish By-Products : Products such as fish burgers, fritters, pâtés, and meatballs are made using fish pulp left after filleting. Additional fish residues are used to produce broths, functional ingredients, and flavorings.

 

Upcyclink actively contributes to this sector by offering a range of upcycled products from various by-products.

 

Challenges to Overcome

For upcycling to reach its full potential, action is required across the value chain, including :

 

• A Clear Regulatory Framework : While the EU promotes circular economy initiatives, specific guidelines for food upcycling are lacking. European sanitary regulations demand strict traceability and rigorous processing conditions, increasing costs for smaller entities ;

 

• Consumer Awareness : Despite growing interest, some consumers remain hesitant about consuming products made from “waste.” Clear communication from businesses and public authorities is essential to educate and shift perceptions ;

 

• Logistics and Infrastructure : Industrial valorization of by-products poses logistical challenges, especially for perishable materials. Solutions like mobile valorization units, such as Upcyclink’s SOBRE®, enable on-site processing, reducing logistical costs and losses.

 

A Revolution in Agri-food Practices

 

Food upcycling, though still emerging, is reshaping agri-food practices. The combination of innovative technologies, such as those offered by Upcyclink, and the rising momentum for sustainable consumption makes it an essential solution for the future. Is the agri-food industry ready to embrace these sustainable practices on a large scale? How far can upcycling transform our way of producing and consuming food ?