The research by Enea has discovered new opportunities to improve coffee waste, such as Cascara, the benefits of which have been extended to different sectors, including food, agriculture and nutracette. This study opens the way for the circular economy, which improves the sustainability of coffee production
SNEA Research
On January 30, 2025, AENEAS He has published a study in the sector factories, in collaboration with Mexican research institutes and theInternational Italian-Latin American Organization (IILA). The study focuses on how coffee waste, in particular Cascara (dried shell), can be used to develop new products in various areas, including food, nutraceutical, cosmetic and agriculture.
Research shows that coffee can contribute tocircular economy and on the Bio -economy. These discoveries can not only contribute to the sustainability of the environment, but also to improve the economic condition of coffee farmers in developing countries.
The value of waste and food recycling
Traditionally, coffee waste is seen as an environmental problem. Thanks to scientific research, however, this waste appears to be a source that is rich in useful molecules such as antioxidants, polyphenols, carotenoids, flavonoids and minerals. As Loretta Bacchetta, researcher and co -author of the study explains, the improvement of this can lead to the creation of products with value -advised products for different sectors.
The Caffè Enea Caffè Studio starts from Mexico
The study chose Mexico and in particular the mountainous region of Sierra de Zongolica, in Veracruz, as a case of study. High quality coffee is grown here without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers. The region stands for serious challenges with regard to climate change and commercial inequalities, with around 80% of the income from coffee sale that goes to buyers.
Faced with these difficulties, a group of twenty farming families began to diversify their activities and re -use the café through -Products, especially dried cascara, as fertilizers and infusion for drinks.
Possible applications of cascara and other by -Products
In addition to Cascara, other coffee through -products, such as the parchment and the Silverskin, have favorable properties. The parchment can be used as a herbicide, while Silverskin has potential applications such as food additive, thickening and dye. Moreover, it can be used to improve the quality of agricultural land, especially when cultivating edible mushrooms.
Global implications and economic benefits
Coffee production is essential for developing countries, with an estimate of approximately 180 million bags of 60 kg produced in 2023-2024. The by -products, which amount to around 840 million bags, form a costly resource that, if improved well, could generate economic benefits for manufacturers and for the global coffee industry.
In a context of climate change and price volatility, the improvement of by -products can help support local economies and reduce the environmental impact of coffee production.