Project R-15698

Fruit Production Residue Innovation for Plant and Human Health (FRESH) (Research)

This interdisciplinary research project aims to study and valorize underutilised residual streams from the local fruit sector, pears and grapes, in the context of Circular Flanders and the European Green Deal. We will develop innovative and sustainable extraction methods to optimally extract polyphenols and flavonoids, i.e. plant-derived natural molecules, from pears and grape residual streams. The resulting extracts will be tested for their beneficial properties for human health, plant growth, and plant protection against drought. Additionally, we will produce carbon-rich biochar from fruit tree pruning waste and post-extraction residues. This can serve as an alternative growth substrate for grape plants or foliar fertiliser, thereby closing nutrient cycles and increasing our fundamental knowledge of green extraction methods and the development of new bioproducts.

01 May 2025 - 30 April 2030